Chinese businessman Gai Jisheng new chairman of Premier League club, Southampton

LONDON -- English Premier League club, Southampton have confirmed the Chinese businessman, Gao Jisheng as the new club Chairman.

Gai Jisheng, who is Southampton's majortity shareholder after buying an 80 percent stake in the south-coast based outfit in 2017, replaced Ralph Krueger after Kreuger stepped down towards the end of last season.

"Majority shareholder Mr. Jisheng will now take the position of chairman of the club and St Mary's Football Group," confirmed Southampton in a press communique which also confirmed that Martin Semmens "has also been appointed as CEO of Southampton Football Club, and will lead the club on a day-to-day basis," while Gal Jisheng is in China.

The club also confirmed that coach Raalph Hasenhuttl will remain as first team coach after leading the club to safety from relegation in the final weeks of last season.