Saints vice chairman Les Reed has left the club.

Reed, who has been in charge of football related matters at St Mary’s since 2010, has gone with immediate effect with Saints languishing in the table having won just one top flight game this season.

The 65-year-old will be replaced in due course, but the club insist they are in no hurry to make a new appointment.

A club statement said: “Southampton Football Club can today confirm it has agreed to part company with its Vice Chairman (Football), Les Reed.

“The club believes the time is right to take constructive action and make a change that will provide new drive and direction to our football operations team and enable them to get results back on track.

“The search for the right replacement, along with a thorough review into the club’s football operations, has begun.”

Chairman Ralph Krueger commented: “I would like to go on record to thank Les for the eight years of hard work and dedication he has given Southampton Football Club. His time at the club will be remembered for the fine work he did in overseeing our progress through the divisions and establishing the club in the Premier League.

“The process of recruiting the right individual to head up our football operations is under way, and is a decision that needs to be given the necessary time and attention that reflects what an important position it is within our club.

"Now, more than ever, we are grateful for the continued support of our staff and fans as we work towards our joint aim of moving up the table.”

Reed helped build Saints back into a Premier League club and his appointment of Ronald Koeman lifted them to heady heights.

However, a number of poor transfer windows and questionable managerial appointments in recent years have left Saints sinking.

Having sacked Claude Puel after an eighth placed finish and EFL Cup final appearance, Reed was forced to sack another manager after Mauricio Pellegrino’s spell in charge left them on the brink of relegation.

Mark Hughes came in to keep the club up and was handed the job permanently, but the club are again battling to avoid the bottom three this season.

Reed’s right hand man, head of recruitment Ross Wilson, remains in place.