Southampton has fired coach Russel Martin, the club reports via the own channels. The dismissal follows the heavy defeat against Tottenham Hotspur at home. The Saints lost 0-5, a score that had already been reached at half time.
“We can confirm that we have made the difficult decision to say goodbye to our head coach, Russel Martin,” Southampton said via its own website. ‘Going into the season we knew that the challenge would be great to play in the best and most competitive league in the world. However, the reality is clear. The board has supported Russel and his staff and has been open and transparent about expectations. We agree on the urgency of better results.’
The coach also thanks the coach for the services rendered. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank Russel and his staff for the hard work and commitment they have brought to the club, both on and off the pitch, over the last eighteen months. Everyone at the club will have fantastic memories of last season, especially winning the Play-Off Final in May.’
We can confirm that we have taken the difficult decision to part ways with our Men’s First Team Manager, Russell Martin.
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) December 15, 2024
Southampton Under-21 coach Simon Rusk will take charge for the time being until a permanent replacement for Martin is found. Martin’s dismissal is already the second managerial dismissal in one day in the Premier League. Earlier on Sunday, Gary O’Neil was sent off at Wolverhampton Wanderers.