Mark Hughes is under increasing pressure to turn Southampton’s season around after vice-chairman Les Reed, one of the chief architects of the club’s Premier League resurgence, was sacked.

Although the position of Hughes is not under any imminent danger, the decision on Reed reflects a desire not to make the same perceived mistakes of last season by waiting to act before making changes and the club yesterday also dismissed technical director Martin Hunter.

Southampton became renowned followed Reed’s arrival in 2010 for their often inspired recruitment but that touch has faltered in recent seasons and he has ultimately been forced to take responsibility.

The club’s board also still feel that their current Premier League position, down in 17th place, with only one win all season, is not reflective of the squad’s quality and they now hope this change will provide fresh impetus.

Hughes has a three-year contract and, although he acknowledged that results would have been part of the catalyst for Reed’s departure, does not feel that his position will necessarily change.