Steven Schumacher chose Plymouth Argyle over Preston North End – but is now wanted by relegated Southampton.
Cast your minds back to December 2021; PNE had sacked boss Frankie McAvoy and were moving quickly for a replacement.
Ryan Lowe was swiftly brought in as PNE’s new boss, making the move from Plymouth Argyle to Deepdale.
Some expected Lowe to bring his Plymouth assistant Steven Schumacher to Lancashire too, but that didn’t happen.
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Instead, Schumacher took the reins at Plymouth, replacing Lowe and continuing his fine work at Home Park.
Schumacher even told the EFL’s official website that moving to North End alongside Lowe was tempting, but he chose to become a manager in his own right.
That decision has certainly paid off; Schumacher has guided Plymouth to the League One title, breaking the 100 points barrier in the process.
Lowe and Schumacher will now face off in the Championship next season – but Plymouth may not be involved.
TalkSPORT’s Alex Crook reports that Schumacher is now wanted by Southampton as they chase a new manager.
The Saints were relegated on Saturday afternoon having been beaten 2-0 at home by Fulham.
Ruben Selles is unlikely to keep his job after being given the interim job until the summer.
Southampton will now want a manager who can take them back to the Premier League at the first time of asking – and Schumacher is a prime candidate.
Swansea City boss Russell Martin is also thought to on Southampton’s wish list having enjoyed a strong end to the season.
In another world, Schumacher took up PNE’s offer and would now be planning for a summer transfer window alongside Lowe.
Instead, Schumacher could end up being charged with the task of taking Southampton back to the Premier League – but we can imagine him having huge loyalty to Plymouth after the chance they took on him.