Claude Puel is expecting the worst at Southampton.

The Sun says he is anticipating the axe at Southampton this week — and is already lining up a return to France.

Boss Puel held secret talks with Ligue 1 side St Etienne, fearing he is set to become the latest Premier League managerial casualty.

The ex-Monaco and Lyon coach will discover his fate following an end-of-season review.

But with the Saints actively scouting Europe for a successor, it seems unlikely Puel, 55, will dodge the sack.

Puel led Saints to an eighth-place finish in the top flight and the EFL Cup final in his maiden season in charge at St Mary's.