Southampton has sacked manager Nathan Jones with the club entrenched in a desperate fight for Premier League survival.

Jones’ departure was announced on Sunday, less than 24 hours after a 2-1 home defeat by 10-man Wolves left the Saints at the foot of the table four points adrift of safety.

“Southampton Football Club can confirm it has parted company with men’s first-team manager Nathan Jones,” a statement on the club’s official website said.

“First-team coaches Chris Cohen and Alan Sheehan have also left the club.

Tweet from @SouthamptonFC

“First-team lead coach Ruben Selles will take charge of training and prepare the team ahead of next weekend’s game against Chelsea.”

Jones was appointed as Ralph Hasenhuttl’s replacement in November last year and his reign lasted just 14 games, of which he won five and lost the remaining nine.

The former Luton boss guided the Saints to the English League Cup semi-finals and the FA Cup fifth round but tasted victory just once in his eight league fixtures, and collected three points from a possible 24.

And a run of successive defeats by Aston Villa, Brentford and Wolves, which prompted concerted protests from the club’s fans, ultimately cost the Welshman his job.

With 16 games remaining this season, the Saints are three points adrift of Bournemouth and Everton inside the relegation zone and a point further behind Leeds United in 17th place.

-PA