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Southampton boss Russell Martin sacked after defeat to Tottenham

The English team Southampton (Saints FC) announced today that their former manager, Russell Martin, has been sacked. The decision was taken after their last game against Tottenham, a 5-0 defeat that left Southampton nine points adrift of safety in the Premier League.

In his first season as manager, Martin, 38, led the Saints to promotion. However, this year he has failed to mount a league comeback so far in the English Premier League, in fact, only managing the win in the game against Everton in November. The Saints' latest game was their 13th defeat in 16 games this campaign.

‘At the start of the season we were all aware of the challenges we would face this year as we readjusted to life in the top flight, competing in the best and most competitive league in the world. However, the reality of our situation is clear. The board has been supportive of Russell and his team and has been open and transparent about our expectations. We have all been on the same page in recognising the urgency of the need for results to improve,’ Southampton said in a statement.

Saints under-21 coach Simon Rusk will take over from Martin on an interim basis until another coach is found. Their first game is on Wednesday 18 December, against Premier League leaders Liverpool in the League Cup quarter-finals.

Southampton wanted to send Martin off with a thank you: ‘We would like to take this opportunity to thank Russell and his team for all the hard work and dedication they have given to the club on and off the pitch over the last 18 months. Everyone connected with Southampton will always have fantastic memories of last season, especially the play-off final victory in May,’ the team added.