Russell Martin: Southampton sack manager after Tottenham defeat
Southampton sacked manager Russell Martin after a 5-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday that left them nine points adrift of safety in the Premier League.
Martin, 38, guided Saints to promotion in the play-off final at Wembley last year in his first season in charge, beating Leeds United in the play-off final.
But the loss to Tottenham was Southampton’s 13th defeat in 16 league games this season.
Their only win of the season came against Everton in November, with the St Mary’s club scoring a league-low 11 goals.
Southampton said in a statement: “Going into the start of the season we all knew the challenges we would face this year as we readjusted to life in the top flight, playing in the best and most competitive league in the world.”
“However, the reality of our situation is clear. The board supports Russell and his staff and remains open and transparent about our expectations.
“We all agree on the urgency of improving outcomes.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank Russell and his staff for their hard work and dedication to the club over the past 18 months, both on and off the pitch.
“Everyone connected with Southampton Football Club will have fond memories of last season, especially the play-off final victory in May.”
Southampton Under-21s boss Simon Rusk will take charge of the senior side on an interim basis, with his first game set to be Wednesday’s Carabao Cup quarter-final at home to Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Martin was sacked on the same day as other top-flight strugglers The Wolves have decided to fire head coach Gary O’Neal.
