Jamie Montigue

Southampton have announced that Mark Hughes has signed a contract with the club on a three-year deal after he helped guide Saints to Premier League safety. A club statement read: "Mark and his team had a massive impact from the first day on the players, staff and fans alike, and was able to pull together everyone involved with the club to deliver the results needed. "It is important now, under Mark’s leadership, for everyone to move into the new season with a renewed focus and energy alongside the continued and valuable support of our fans. Assistant First Team Manager Mark Bowen and First Team Coach Eddie Niedzwiecki have also signed long-term contracts." Hughes said: “Mark, Eddie and I are thrilled to have signed long-term contracts with the club. It was the only option we considered, having spent the last eight weeks with the club. “Now it is vital that we take the unbelievable support we received from the fans during the last few games into next season.

Saints confirmed their top-flight survival despite a narrow defeat on the final day. Gabriel Jesus sealed victory with a 94th minute winner to see champions Man City become the first team to reach 100 points in a Premier League season. Southampton 0-1 Man City

Southampton secured a hugely important three points at Swansea to all but secure Premier League survival. Manolo Gabbiadini came off the bench to settle the game with a crucial goal for Mark Hughes's side. 😍! #saintsfc pic.twitter.com/yPMpebG2RI — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) May 8, 2018 Swansea 0-1 Southampton

Tom Davies struck for Everton deep into second half stoppage time to deny Saints all three points. Nathan Redmond had put Southampton a goal in front before Maya Yoshida was sent off late in the game. Mark Hughes' side are now out of the bottom three on goal difference and level on points with Swansea ahead of a crucial game at the Liberty Stadium. Reaction from Mark Hughes: Everton 1-1 Southampton