Incoming Southampton director Ralph Krueger will allow boss Mauricio Pochettino to manage the footballing side of things without interference. The 54-year-old, a former coach of the Switzerland ice hockey team and NHL side Edmonton Oilers, is renowned for his management and leadership expertise.
"It's a question of continuing to grow what's already there, it's not about rebuilding anything," he told the Daily Echo. "I have met the coaching staff and Mauricio Pochettino and spoke to the team.
"I know exactly what he needs - and I know exactly what he doesn't need. He doesn't need someone getting involved in a day to day running of the team. He needs space to do his work, so that he can continue to grow the group.
"I get it, I totally get it. I feel the values that drive him. I know this will be a difficult situation, but that's what makes it exciting and challenging. "It's about leadership and management. The sport I come from is irrelevant."
"No one has more information about what's happening with the team than the head coach. I know that. I've been a head coach. I've been confronted with political situations, people without all the information trying to influence decisions," he added.
"Everything needs to happen naturally. There need be no rush on either side. Pochettino needs to focus on all the important games coming up and I need to make space for him to do his work. He's a very honest, strong personality with strong values. He should feel comfortable."
