Southampton are set to hold a board meeting to discuss their options as they begin the search for George Burley's successor.Saints are expected to appoint a short-term caretaker boss as Burley is set to be confirmed as Scotland's new manager.

Acting chief executive Lee Hoos insisted Southampton did not want to see Burley leave St Mary's for the Scotland position.

And he added: "We do have some ideas and now we will look at the various options and then draw up a short-list of candidates to take this club forward.

"In the meantime we have a very important FA Cup tie here against Bury on Saturday and hopefully we will have a good turn-out of fans to cheer us through to the last 16.

"That game is now our immediate focus and I am confident the players will give everything they have."

Southampton chairman Leon Crouch admitted he "could not stand in the way" of Burley taking over as Scotland coach.

Crouch said: "George has done a terrific job here and we are all very sad to see him go.

"We would not have allowed him to talk to anyone other than Scotland and I don't think he would have left us for anyone else. I know he was very happy here and we were glad to have him. He is an experienced manager who commands respect.

"But it is a huge honour for anyone to take charge of their national side and we could not stand in his way. We thank him for all his hard work here and wish him all the best. I am sure he will do well for them."

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