Ralph Hasenhuttl signs new long-term Southampton contract

The Austrian has inspired a remarkable change in form since October’s record-breaking 9-0 home loss to Leicester with Saints now seven points clear of relegation

Hasenhuttl will commit his long-term future to Saints (Getty)

Southampton have confirmed Ralph Hasenhuttl has signed a new four-year contract until 2024.

The 52-year-old succeeded Mark Hughes at the St Mary’s helm in December 2018 following an eye-catching stint at RB Leipzig.

But despite Hasenhuttl establishing himself as a popular figure on the south coast, he overcame adversity following October’s record-breaking 9-0 home loss to Leicester.

But after guiding Saints seven points clear of the relegation zone, the clubs have tied down the Austrian, alongside assistant coach Richard Kitzbichler, who will continue to work alongside the existing first team staff of Craig Fleming, Dave Watson, Kelvin Davis, Andrew Sparkes and Alek Gross.

Hasenhüttl revealed his delight and committing his future to St Mary’s: “This, for me, was a simple decision. Simple because of the relationship that I have built with the club, the players and the fans, and also because of the relationship they have built with me too.

“I said when I arrived at the club that we were at the beginning of a long journey, and also a journey that would bring emotion and hopefully enjoyment. We have already had some moments where we could celebrate together, and some that have been emotional and also challenging.

“The way we have handled this together as a group of people has been incredible for me, and I believe we now have strong foundations here that can allow us to take the next steps in our progress as a team.

“For me, this is an important step in the journey. My players, our staff, and of course the supporters must understand my commitment to this club and to what we are trying to build together.

“We value the same philosophies, and this is a big part of why I want to stay here, and I hope we can share in some very successful moments moving forward.”

Southampton’s Chief Executive Officer Martin Semmens added: “From day one, Ralph has had a positive impact on the club, everyone within it and our fans. He joined our club at a time when strong leadership was needed to drive the club forward. This he delivered, but it was the clarity of vision that has ultimately led us to this point.

“It is clear to me that Ralph believes in this club and is passionate about the project we have ahead of us. He understood who we are very quickly, and over the last six months has developed a vision for the club that we believe will lead us back to success on the pitch. A new philosophy on the pitch, but very much rooted in our values and history.

“To be competitive within the Premier League you simply cannot stand still. We need a clear plan that is rooted in hard work and the development of young players on and off the pitch. Ralph brings to us experience of winning, but more than that, an absolute commitment to his philosophy and the development of all age groups at the club.

“To witness first-hand the recovery of the first team around Christmas under his clear leadership has given us all a template of how to drive the club forward. It is important now that the club, led by our Director of Football Operations Matt Crocker, put in place all the support structures around Ralph to produce success, not just for the remaining nine games of this season, but into the long term future of the club.

“There has never been any question in my mind that Ralph is the right man to lead our club, and I look forward to working in partnership with him over the next four years. I know there is no one who will work harder to bring success back for our fans.”