FANS have reacted to the news that Ivan Juric has been appointed Southampton manager on an 18-month deal.

The Croatian joins Saints, who sit bottom of the Premier League table, less than a week after they sacked Russell Martin.

The 49 year old inherits the worst attacking side in the Premier League and will need to make them harder to beat.

Sport Republic hope the former Roma and Torino boss can improve their defensive issues and were won over by his style of play during the interview stages.

Here's what fans have said about Juric's appointment...

Ivan Juric has signed an 18-month contract at St Mary's. (Image: Southampton FC) @Saintsstepgar wrote: "To be honest, in the second half against Liverpool I saw a team that can be more aggressive. As long as it’s done in the right way and, no kamikaze tackles etc. Yes, Stephens, I'm looking at you! Up the Reds."

Brian Hatherley said: "Not my first choice but prepared to give him the benefit. Don't think we can stay up but if we go down fighting, I will be happy."

Matt Hill suggested: "The players are in for a shock. This guy is known to not take any crap. I think a problem with Russ is that though the players loved him, they saw him as their friend rather than their boss."

David Haskell claimed: "(He is) the Croatian Nathan Jones, sorry to say and no to the work permit on the grounds he has no experience in the job he is applying for."

David Marshall asked: "What happened to the "long-term" planning then? Gone out the window I guess! But good luck Ivan. Desperately need to make an immediate impact."

Gary Price pondered: "Maybe he's the manager that Saints needed all along."

SaintJD said: "Welcome and best of luck. We need stability and a team that plays to win with energy, fight and positivity."

Paul Edwards said: "Give the guy a break if he gets us playing even half-decent football and giving it a go it's got to be better than sideways and backwards football."

Nathan K Bartlett wrote: "A truly horrific appointment considering his horrendous managerial record. I’m done with saints until SR are gone."

Here is how fans have responded over on X, formally known as Twitter:

How do you feel about the appointment?