Claude Puel has given his first words as manager of Southampton Football Club and is looking forward to the wonderful challenge.
The worst kept secret in an SO Postcode was finally revealed today when Claude Puel was announced as the new manager of Southampton Football Club, Puel takes charge with immediate effect and will have net those players who are not on International duty who where at Staplewood for fitness assessment ahead of next weeks return for pre season training.
Puel has spoken to the Saints youtube channel of his excitement at joining the club.
The first question answered though for Saints fans is whether the new man speaks any English, you will all be pleased to know that his English is very good and he will have little trouble communicating with the players. This is part of what he has said, view the whole interview on the Saints you tube channel using the link at the bottom of the page.
"I am very happy to be the new manager, because it's a good opportunity and a good challenge for me to come here to Southampton — a very good club and a very good organisation,” said Puel, who has extensive experience of managing in the Champions League, as well as the French top-flight.
"The challenge for me, and for the club also, is to continue the good results and to play games every three days.
"It's a new thing for the club, although not for me, because I know this, but it will be important to know the particularities of this season and I think it will be important to give success and to keep the philosophy of the club also — a squad with very good technique and a team that can give pleasure for the fans.”
"I liked what the directors had to say, because it's important for the club to continue the philosophy of the game of Southampton. It's important to improve young players, but also to keep efficient with the results.
"It’s a very, very good challenge for Southampton, but for me also. I know the high level with different clubs in France, I know the Europa League, I know the Champions League.
"I hope that it's a possibility in the future for Southampton to play in the Champions League, but it's important to improve with these players. They know the high level with the Europa League and I hope with the Champions League for the future.”