Hoddle again for desperate Saints

Wayne Veysey|Evening Standard14 April 2012

Glenn Hoddle is poised for a controversial return to football as manager of Southampton nine months after a revolt in the stands and boardroom blocked his reappointment at the South Coast club.

Steve Wigley could be axed if Southampton lose Saturday's derby at home to Portsmouth, paving the way for Hoddle's comeback as early as next week.

The former England and Tottenham manager was thought to be the favourite for the West Brom job but his sudden withdrawal and the subsequent appointment of Bryan Robson suggested he may have had other offers.

Southampton chairman Rupert Lowe wanted Hoddle to replace Gordon Strachan earlier this year, only for the plan to be met with huge opposition from fans and members of the club's board.

The job was given to Paul Sturrock but the Scotsman lasted fewer than six months and Wigley has not won any of his 10 Premiership matches since his promotion in August from the academy and reserves.

Wigley admitted his position was "vulnerable" following Tuesday's 5-2 Carling Cup hammering at Watford.

Hoddle, who caused an outcry among supporters when he left to take charge of Tottenham three-and-a-half years ago, has been out of work since being dismissed by Spurs.

He applied unsuccessfully for the France national job in the summer and has spent his time working as a television pundit and honing his skills on the golf course.

Despite branding Spurs a "bunch of north London yobbos" for luring his manager away, Lowe has remained an open admirer of Hoddle. Last month he said: "I believe in giving people a second chance. I accept that there are people who feel passionately about this club who can't forgive.

"The way he left the club was the problem but Glenn is an extremely good coach. I don't think there is any question about that." Speaking today, former Southampton star Peter Osgood echoed Lowe's view. "I think Glenn should come in.