The gap in the Premier League is not unparalleled and it would be a welcome challenge to replace Jones, as there is still plenty of football to play.
But Southampton have been criticized for their indecision over the future of Ralph Hasenhuttl, their rush to appoint an unsuitable person in Jones, and their delaying his inevitable sacking.
The club must make the right decision this time if it wants to avoid a return to the championship after 11 years of promotion to the first division.
Chelsea, who have won just two of their last 13 games under Graham Potter, could face the “new manager’s throwback” when they host Southampton at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
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