Southampton have confirmed the appointment of Ivan Juric as manager on an 18-month contract. The Croatian, who was sacked by Roma last month, joins with the club bottom of the Premier League, having parted company with Russell Martin last Sunday.

Juric is awaiting final work permit approval so Simon Rusk may take charge of Southampton’s game at Fulham on Sunday.

“Despite the club’s current position in the Premier League, we remain focused on fighting for survival this season and believe this appointment will provide us with the grit and determination needed to improve results on the pitch,” read a club statement.

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“Juric, a former Croatia international as a player, arrives at Saints on an 18-month contract with a reputation for helping his teams punch above their weight.

“The 49-year-old’s coaching career to date has been spent in Italy, most recently with European giants Roma, but with notable success across spells in charge of Mantova, Crotone, Genoa, Hellas Verona and Torino.”

Juric, who was on the shortlist to replace Ralph Hasenhüttl at Saints two years ago, lasted just 12 games at Roma after being appointed in September but set his sights on getting improved performances from his new team.

“I’m very pleased. I think it’s a really big challenge but I’m very optimistic because I saw a team that can do better,” he said. “It’s important to immediately be connected with the fans. I want an aggressive team and I think that fans of Southampton will like that.”