DEFIANT Saints manager Ruben Selles confirmed he only wants to stay at the club if he is the boss and will try to forge a managerial career elsewhere if not.

The Spaniard spoke ahead of his side’s visit to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday knowing the St Mary’s outfit are already relegated from the Premier League.

Swansea’s Russell Martin is among names on the Saints shortlist for their next manager with a season in the Championship beckons.

READ MORE: Russell Martin reportedly set to be appointed as the new Saints manager

Selles has not been told whether he is to remain as the boss or not following the conclusion of the season but sent a very clear message about his role.

He said: “First question is if I want to stay as a coach if I’m not the manager, absolutely not. If somebody has a doubt or if they don’t know it through me they can read in through the media.

“That’s very direct and yes I will try to make my career as a manager. Here if it is possible but if it is not I hope it will be another place.”

Selles picked up two wins and a draw in his first four league games in the hot seat, conceding just one goal, but the team are winless since.

Reflecting on the job, Selles added: “We need to sit here for some hours to talk about everything I have been through and everything I have learnt.

“When I took the job I had an idea of what it was because I have supported other managers with Ralph and Nathan.

“I just lived this moment for the last three months, preparing for everything having been supporting decisions but now making the decisions.

“I have learnt the practical bits in terms of being exposed to the media and the fans, so I took a lot from this experience and I also took for myself how I reacted, made things happen and can do better next time.”

Selles recognises the media reports surrounding his future but insists he does not begrudge them. 

"If I don't want people to talk about it I should win more football matches and I know the business, that's what it is," he admitted.

"We talked with the club that we'd review after the Liverpool game, that's what I'm expecting - if the club want to make any movement with or without me I expect the club to tell me before they make it public."