Saints owner Gao Jisheng has been named as the club’s chairman in a major reshuffle.

Gao has been working behind the scenes to finalise a new management structure following the decision to let Ralph Krueger depart after his contract expired.

Martin Semmens will be in charge on a day-to-day basis as CEO, with Toby Steele running the business side of the club and Ross Wilson in charge of football operations directly beneath him in the new structure.

Gao, who will still be based in China, is chairman of the club’s parent company, which sets the overall direction, while Katharina Liebherr re-joins that board.

Gao and his daughter, Nelly, are also on the club board.

A statement said: “Following our statement at the end of last season, Southampton Football Club can confirm its board structure for the 2019/20 season and beyond.

“Majority shareholder Mr Jisheng Gao will now take the position of Chairman of the club and St Mary’s Football Group. Katharina Liebherr re-joins the St Mary’s Football Group board whilst Nelly Gao and Martin Semmens will also become members of the St Mary’s Football Group board and Vice-Chairs of the club board.

“Martin Semmens has also been appointed as CEO of Southampton Football Club, and will lead the club on a day-to-day basis.

“The management team and operations remain unchanged and the club is looking forward with new focus and determination to a successful season.”