Yahoo Sport 
Premier League: 5 contenders to replace Claude Puel at Southampton
Having introduced a then-unknown Mauricio Pochettino to English football in 2013, Southampton have a habit of unearthing managerial gems.
Following the departure of Claude Puel they will need to do so again if they are to maintain their push for European qualification in an increasingly competitive Premier League.
Here Yahoo Sport takes a look at five likely candidates to succeed Puel at St Mary’s Stadium.
THOMAS TUCHEL
Installed as the early favourite, Tuchel is looking for a new job after leaving Borussia Dortmund under a cloud last month. His exciting brand of football will sit well at St Mary’s, but his seemingly volatile temperament may be hard to reconcile with Saints’ recent reputation as a selling club.
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JAAP STAM
The former Manchester United defender earned plaudits for the way he lifted Reading to the brink of the Premier League last season. After coming up short on penalties in the Championship play-off final, Stam may fancy a new challenge, and would not have to uproot far to head to Saints.
MAURICIO PELLEGRINO
Seemingly this year’s most-linked manager, Pellegrino is currently favourite to take over at Crystal Palace. But the Argentinian, who left Alaves last month, could easily have his head turned by the experience of his compatriot Pochettino at St Mary’s – and the feeling may well be mutual.
FRANK DE BOER
De Boer was one of the game’s hottest managerial properties when he left Ajax to take over at Inter Milan in August last year, but a series of dismal performances saw him dismissed after just 85 days in charge. Again, following recent success with his fellow Dutchman Ronald Koeman, Saints could be tempted to resurrect his career.
SEAN DYCHE
A manager seemingly resistant to speculation despite his stunning job keeping Burnley in the top flight. Dyche has shown no inclination to leave Turf Moor but the time will surely come when he is given the chance to test himself at a bigger club, and Saints might fit the bill.
