Lowe rules out Hoddle return
Southampton chairman Rupert Lowe has rubbished suggestions that Glenn Hoddle might be installed as their new manager due to current head coach Steve Wigley lacking the appropriate qualifications.
Newspaper reports claimed the former Saints and England boss could be on his way back to St Mary's as Wigley, the assistant coach who stepped into the breach following Paul Sturrock's departure, does not yet hold the UEFA Pro Licence required to manage in the Premiership.
However, Lowe dismissed the idea out of hand.
"It is complete nonsense to say Glenn Hoddle is coming back," he said.
Of Wigley's status, Lowe added: "We are talking to the Premier League about the issue and those discussions are private but we are very hopeful this matter can be resolved.
"Steve has his UEFA A licence, which is the main element of the qualification, and we are comfortable with him as our head coach."
Southampton are hopeful they will be able to gain some leeway with the rules which state Wigley can only remain in the post for three months without the Pro Licence.
Lowe cited Chris Coleman at Fulham and Eddie Gray at Leeds as previous examples of special dispensation.
Wigley told the club's website, www.saintsfc.co.uk: "I have got the full UEFA A licence and I am being booked in to do the Pro Licence as soon as possible.
"Hopefully this will be resolved fairly smoothly."
