Saints axe Sturrock in player row

Paul Sturrock today became the first managerial casualty of the Premiership season when he was axed by Southampton.

The former Plymouth manager leaves the club less than six months after replacing Gordon Strachan amid rumours of player unrest.

James Beattie was thought to be particularly unsettled and was due to be sold until a dramatic change of heart in the run-up to Saturday's 3-2 win over Blackburn. It is believed the uncertainty over the managerial situation swayed his decision.

Chairman Rupert Lowe bizarrely claimed recent press speculation over Sturrock's future was the reason for his exit.

He said: "Those people responsible should take a long hard look at themselves."

Assistant coach Steve Wigley will take charge while the club look for a new manager.

The League Managers Association reacted with astonishment to Sturrock's departure.

LMA vice-chairman Frank Clark said: "It is so disappointing that a manager can lose his job just two games into the season.

"A pundit on television before the Blackburn game said Sturrock had just one more match to save his job, which I found hard to believe.

"Winning one out of two isn't a bad start so I'm astounded at what has happened. Obviously we don't know all the details but on the face of it it's ludicrous.