Damiano joins Southampton set-up

French success
Damiano assisted Gérard Houllier in the French set-up when they led a side including Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet to victory in the 1996 UEFA European Under-18 Championship. The 54-year-old went on to take roles at FC Nantes Atlantique and Fulham FC before teaming up again with Houllier at Liverpool FC last season.

'Attractive squad'
Southampton chairman Rupert Lowe, who appointed Wigley in succession to Paul Sturrock in August, said: "Steve has hired the man he believes is best for the job and who has a reputation for playing attractive football. He is coming here because he sees an attractive squad of good players and he feels he can do a lot with them."