Exclusive: Southampton set swift timeline for Russell Martin sack with replacement hunt underwa

TEAMtalk has learned that Southampton’s executives are prepared to fire manager Russell Martin if the team loses its home match against Leicester City after the international break. Martin is just one game away from losing his job. Because of his team’s dismal performance, the Southampton administration is growing impatient with Martin and planning to make a change based on the outcome of their match against Leicester on Saturday, October 19. TEAMtalk has received confirmation from sources that Southampton authorities are compiling a roster of possible substitutes for the 38-year-old in the event that they are compelled to switch dugout personnel.

 

Martin did a fantastic job to get Southampton promoted last season as they finished fourth in the Championship before beating Leeds United in the play-off final to secure an immediate return to the top flight. Martin was rewarded with a new three-year contract in the summer, however it has been a tough start for Saints back in the Premier League.

 

They sit 19th in the table, having picked up just one point from seven games so far. Only goal difference is keeping them above Wolverhampton Wanderers and off bottom spot.

 

Since drawing 1-1 with Ipswich Town to gain their one and only point of the campaign, Martin’s side have lost 3-1 to both Bournemouth and Arsenal.

With just four goals in their first seven games, Saints are the lowest goal scorers in the league. With 15 goals allowed, they also have the joint second-worst defensive record. Martin has faced criticism for sticking with Southampton’s distinct possession football approach, despite the team’s weaknesses being made evident by Premier League opponents in the first few weeks of the season. Even though the season is still extremely early, Southampton already appears to be fighting with teams like Wolves, Crystal Palace, Ipswich, Everton, and Leicester to remain in the division. Chiefs at Southampton are prepared to take action in an effort to improve the team’s performance.