New boss Claude Puel set steep task by Southampton

Southampton have challenged Claude Puel to beat last season’s record sixth place Premier League finish, after confirming the Frenchman as their new manager on a three-year deal.

The former Monaco and Nice boss replaces Ronald Koeman, who left for Everton earlier this summer, while former Aston Villa coach Eric Black has been named as Puel’s assistant.

Pascal Plancque has also joined Puel’s backroom staff, while Southampton have agreed a deal to retain Dave Watson among the coaching set-up.