NEWS. . . BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT
Southampton manager Russell Martin did not seem convinced that Jason Wilcox was about to leave the club for Manchester United and was unwilling to talk the matter after a dramatic defeat to Ipswich Town.
Reports emerged on Monday night that Wilcox would move to Old Trafford and take over as manager, leaving his role as director of football with the Saints.
The championship side are believed to be furious at the timing of the move as they seek promotion to the Premier League and there is a war of words over how much they would be owed if Wilcox were to leave.
Manchester United are said to have submitted an amount equivalent to one year’s salary, triggering a release clause, but Southampton deny this.
A 97th-minute winner for Ipswich saw Southampton lose 3-2 at Portman Road on Monday night and Martin wasn’t too happy to be asked about Wilcox after the game.
“I heard in the media that he was gone for six weeks, nothing has changed,” Martin told Sky Sports. “I spoke to Jason this morning, we had a game, I’m here to tell you about the game. not Jason.
“I’m sure at some point the club will be able to tell you or I’ll be able to tell you what’s going on. Now I’ve just lost 3-2 in a game where we were fantastic and I don’t need to communicate that. “about that.
“I’m here to tell you about the game, Jason has been wonderful for us, if he goes, he goes. I don’t know what’s going on. Let me get a little mad at the result first.
Although Southampton would possibly take offense, Wilcox seems keen to sign for United as manager, along with other new signings such as Dan Ashworth as sporting director and Omar Berrada as the club’s new general manager.
After their defeat at Ipswich, the Saints are fourth in the league and look ready for the play-offs.
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