Kraft steps down as Saints chairman

Southampton chairman Henrik Kraft has stepped down, with majority shareholder of owners Sport Republic Dragan Solak taking on the role, the club has announced.

Kraft will remain a shareholder and on the board of Sport Republic.

On the change, Solak said: "I would like to thank Henrik for the dedication and passion he has invested in his role.

"While I am pleased with many aspects of the club's management, I am deeply disappointed with the football results this season. We will be strengthening our football management team in the near future, and we will share details of that as soon as things are confirmed.

"Our aim at the start of the season was to stay in the Premier League, and I know our fans share in my frustration at how this season has gone so far.

"I ask everyone to continue supporting the club with as much passion and dedication as they have shown all season as we navigate the rest of the season together."