Southampton Must Sack Russell Martin Tonight, It’s The Perfect Time

Russell Martin’s team lost 3-1 against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium today after blowing a lead. This means the former Swansea City manager will undoubtedly be leaving his position at St. Mary’s after seven games without a victory this season.

Arsenal had the better of possession and territory in the first half, but they were unable to penetrate a resilient Southampton defence. Shortly after the half, Cameron Archer’s deflected shot beat an outstretched David Raya to give the Saints the lead. However, the lead for the away team was only in place for three minutes when Kai Havertz beat Aaron Ramsdale with a beautiful strike. Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka then completed the comeback.

Having amassed just one Premier League point so far, Southampton sit 19th in the table, spared the embarrassment of being rock bottom by an abject Wolves side. Such a record and the dismal nature of today’s late capitulation ought to prompt the club’s hierarchy to consider Martin’s position as head coach, with the international break presenting the perfect opportunity to do so.

Southampton Should Sack Martin

Martin won praise in the Championship for establishing a distinct identity, with his teams aiming to control possession and territory throughout football games. Martin was appointed as the first-team manager last season in spite of criticism from the fans.

The former Norwich City player effectively implemented this style of play, and the Saints were promoted back to the Premier League after defeating Leeds 1-0 at Wembley in May.

Though Martin is adamant about maintaining his uniqueness, his playing style hasn’t quite translated to the elite league. It’s possible that he has the necessary skill to play at this level. Southampton entered the match in North London in desperate need of points after convincing losses to Brentford, Bournemouth, Manchester United, and Nottingham Forest.

Moving toward do so before capitulating from just before the hour mark onwards, Southampton’s defensive frailties were exposed once again, which will be hugely concerning to the club’s senior figures.

Martin is undoubtedly on borrowed time given the reports from earlier this week that the loss to Bournemouth on Monday night could be expensive for him. Graham Potter has been mentioned as a potential replacement; the international break provides an ideal opportunity to make the switch and give the replacement some time to adjust.