Russell Martin Dismissed by Southampton After Devastating Loss to Tottenham, Placing Them at the Bottom of the Premier League Table -

SOUTHAMPTON has terminated its relationship with Russell Martin just an hour after enduring a significant 5-0 defeat to Tottenham last night.

Martin, who led the Saints to promotion last season, achieved only one win in 16 Premier League matches and exits with the club languishing on just five points.

Russell Martin receives encouragement from Tottenham's Ange Postecoglou following a 5-0 defeat at home that sealed Southampton's fate — Russell Martin receives encouragement from Tottenham’s Ange Postecoglou following a 5-0 home defeat that sealed Southampton’s fateCredit: Getty

A telling moment as fans started leaving the stands after Spurs netted their fourth goal just 25 minutes into the match — A telling moment as fans began to exit the stands after Spurs scored their fourth goal, just 25 minutes into the St Mary’s rout

No team has ever managed to escape relegation from a position like Southampton currently finds itself in within the Premier League.

Amid the crowd, there were audible boos directed at the former Swansea manager — with some supporters leaving the stadium just 26 minutes into the game at a score of 4-0 — and a banner was displayed proclaiming, “RM: Get out of our club!”

When asked about his future following the match against Spurs, Martin answered: “Not a clue, no. Not a clue. You’re speaking to the wrong man.”

Addressing the fans’ discontent, Martin expressed: “I’ve always fought hard in my life and my career, and we will continue to work and fight until I’m told otherwise.”

“I don’t really have a response. The fans have been incredible since our arrival.”

“I recognize the frustration. I also understand the modern world of football and what it entails. So apart from that, I have no substantial reply.”

Last season, Martin orchestrated a remarkable 25-game unbeaten run as Southampton made their way to promotion through the Play-Offs.

However, his rigid commitment to a high-risk playing style and below-par summer signings led to the club experiencing its worst season opener in history.

OFFICIAL SOUTHAMPTON STATEMENT

THE Saints announced Russell Martin’s departure on Sunday night with the following statement:

We can confirm that we have made the tough decision to part ways with our Men’s First Team Manager, Russell Martin.

As we approached the beginning of the season, we all recognized the challenges ahead as we adapted to competing at the highest level, amongst the best and most competitive league in the world.

However, the reality of our situation is clear. The board has supported Russell and his staff and has remained open and transparent regarding our expectations. We all acknowledge the urgency needed to secure results for improvement.

We are grateful to Russell and his staff for their hard work and dedication, both on and off the pitch, over the past 18 months. Everyone associated with Southampton FC will always hold dear the wonderful memories from last season, especially the Play-Off Final triumph in May.

Current Under-21s Manager Simon Rusk will assume temporary control of the team until a permanent replacement is appointed.

Behind the scenes, we are hopeful about the ongoing development of talent within our Academy. We take pride in the contributions our young players are making and are confident that this will continue to be a source of strength and pride for everyone associated with the club.

We are incredibly thankful for the steadfast support and positivity shown by our fans. We are witnessing firsthand the significant gap between the Championship and the Premier League, but your understanding and passion, even during disappointing results, continue to inspire our long-term commitment to the club.

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His departure coincided with the day second-from-bottom Wolves also parted ways with Gary O’Neil.

Southampton’s owners, Sport Republic, who dismissed two managers during their last Premier League campaign, are not expected to consider candidates like David Moyes.

Frustrated Southampton fans exit St Mary’s just 27 minutes into the Tottenham match following a 4-0 deficit

SunSport understands that a foreign appointment is now the most likely outcome.

Some within the club are expressing interest in Sheffield Wednesday manager Danny Rohl, who previously worked as an assistant to Ralph Hasenhuttl during his time at Southampton.

However, attracting a suitable candidate may pose a challenge given Southampton’s current position.

The Saints issued a statement outlining their reasoning for the “difficult decision” to part ways with Martin.

Part of the statement read: “As we began the season, we were all aware of the challenges ahead as we adjusted to competing in the top flight, the most competitive league globally.”

“However, the truth of our situation is unmistakable.”