While Southampton are apparently all geared up to name Jesse Marsch as their new boss, former Crystal Palace owner Simon Jordan believes the American does not have what it takes to manage in the Premier League.
The Saints parted ways with Nathan Jones on Sunday, February 12m and have been without a manager since pulling the plug on the Welshman following their 2-1 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.
First team lead coach Ruben Selles has been charged with the task of preparing the team for their trip to Chelsea this weekend while Southampton continue to scout for a new manager, with news emerging that they are reportedly set to appoint former Leeds United’s Marsch as the replacement for Jones.
Marsch had been on the Hampshire-based club’s radar even as early as last year. However, former Palace owner Jordan is not impressed by the American tactician’s credentials or management nous, with Jordan insisting that Marsch has neither the style nor substance to succeed with a top-flight club. Speaking on talkSPORT, Jordan said:
“I don’t think he has got the chops. I don’t know whether this is a board appointment or whether it’s an owner appointment if indeed it is going to happen.
“I mean I think we are quite solid on this, and so is the perception of it. I don’t think he is a good enough manager.
“I think he is all style over substance and I don’t think the style is that great and with substance, he’s lacking.”
Marsch had been in charge over Southampton’s league rivals Leeds for a year before being released from his contractual obligations earlier this month when the Whites decided to call time on his tenure after he struggled to steer them out of the relegation zone.
However, never-say-never in football as the former RB Leipzig gaffer could now be in the dugout when the Saints lock horns with Chelsea on Saturday, February 18.
Despite Jordan having his reservations about the manager, the club hierarchy on the other hand will be hoping that he can keep them in the league.