Will Still agrees to take Championship job days after leaving Lens.
Will Still has reached an agreement with Southampton to become the club’s new manager, talkSPORT understands.
Still, he could be in the stands on Sunday for the Saints’ final game of the season after signing a three-year contract with St Mary’s.
Simon Rusk has been interim manager of Southampton since April, following the departure of Ivan Juric.
This is Rusk’s second interim role this season, following Russell Martin’s dismissal in December.
Still, who led Lens to eighth place in Ligue 1, announced his departure from the club last weekend to be closer to his partner Emma Saunders.
Saunders, a Sky Sports presenter, has been dealing with a number of health issues over the past year.
She was treated for thyroid cancer and is currently recovering from encephalitis, a type of brain infection.
He stated that he will not be coaching RC Lens next season.
“It was the final season at Bollaert for several reasons.
“The main reason that pushed me to make this decision was that I needed to return home.
“Everyone is well aware of what occurred in my life.” That’s why.
“I had a lot of fun, and I believe we accomplished great things despite everything. I’ve been in France for four years, during which I’ve experienced intense moments.
“The logical choice is that I get closer to my wife for her well-being too.”
Saunders attended Lens’ final game of the Ligue 1 season, which they won 4-0 over Monaco.
She posted a picture of herself and Still on the pitch after full time.
Fans have previously expressed their support for Saunders with a banner reading ‘Courage Emma et Will’.
Still, he plans to return to England and could start working immediately for the south coast club, which will compete in the Championship next season.
The Saints fell back to the Championship, having scored only 12 points in 36 games this season.
Southampton finish their dismal Premier League season at home against Arsenal.
The club was also considering Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Rohl, but compensation was thought to be an issue.
Despite being only 30 years old, he established himself as Reims manager.
He didn’t even have his UEFA professional licence, which cost the club £22,000 per match.
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