Mark Hughes putting Southampton safety above own future

Mark Hughes is unconcerned about his own managerial future but is instead fully focused on retaining Southampton's Premier League status.

Hughes, who took over following the dismissal of Mauricio Pellegrino, will see his short-term contract expire at the end of the season.

The Welshman was brought in by the south coast club to steer the Saints clear of relegation threat, and has four games remaining to achieve his target.

Southampton currently sit in 18th place, four points behind Swansea and adrift of safety.

"I was asked to come in to try to affect the situation Southampton found themselves in. I'm here for the next few weeks, other than that I don't know," Hughes said ahead of Saturday's crucial home clash with Bournemouth.

"No one has discussed with me anything over and above the games we have ahead of us and I think that's the correct way to approach it.

"I'm quite happy with that because all my energy, all my focus is about getting us into a position where we are still a Premier League club next year.

"That's solely how I'm thinking and my approach follows those thoughts and I'm not thinking about what the future has in store for Mark Hughes, it's more about what the future has for Southampton."

During his tenure so far Hughes has taken just one point from a possible 12, with Southampton set to face Everton and fellow relegation candidates Swansea before finishing the campaign against already crowned champions Manchester City.

Hughes admits he remains unsure how many points Saints will need to stay afloat, but is confident about pulling off the escape.

"Ideally, we need to win every one of them. We have the potential to win the four games," he said.

"I have a really good feeling in terms of what I'm hearing from the group when I speak to them, one on one.

"No one anticipated being in this situation. But they're raring to go."

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