Shock exit for Southampton manager Sturrock

Less than 48 hours after receiving the public backing of his chairman, Southampton manager Paul Sturrock was today told to clear his desk after becoming the first managerial victim of the new Barclays Premiership season.

Sturrock departs St Mary’s after just six months in charge with a statement from club chief Rupert Lowe declaring it was a decision reached by mutual consent after media speculation had made the Scotsman’s position untenable.