'Saints' eyeing Paulo Sousa to replace Hughes

It is understood that Sousa was in attendance to watch is potential new players as they were defeated 3-2 by fellow strugglers Fulham at Craven Cottage last weekend. 

Therefore, the probability that the Portuguese will imminently take over from the downtrodden Mark Hughes is gathering momentum by the day. 

In recent weeks, it seems that the 'Saints' board have issed a series of ultimatum for Hughes, who has failed to really get his side firing from the very first day that the campaign kicked off.

Nevertheless, the tenure of Hughes appears to have run its course, with Sousa ready and waiting in the wings to take over at the Southampton helm. 

According to 'The Times', Southampton owner Gao Jisheng became aware of Sousa during his time in the Far East, and has long since been an admirer of the Portuguese' methods. 

Hughes remains in charge for the time being; but with the Carabao Cup exit to Leicester City on Wednesday marking the club's 11 consecutive match without a win, it appears to be a case of when, not if, in terms of the Welshman receiving his marching orders.