By Samuel December 15, 2024
Russell Martin has been relieved of his duties as Southampton’s head coach after the team’s terrible 5-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. It was the Saints’ 13th loss in 16 Premier League matches this season, a torrid run which has seen them pick up just five points. Their latest defeat left them nine points from safety.
Martin had guided the club to promotion from the Championship via the playoffs last season after beating Leeds in the final, but Southampton have so far struggled to impose his possession philosophy in the English top flight, and often batted away suggestions his side could implement a more pragmatic style.
The club confirmed that under 21 boss Simon Rusk would take temporary charge until a “permanent replacement” is appointed. A statement from Southampton issued on Sunday night said: “Going into the start of the season, we all knew the challenges that 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 have supported Russell and his staff and been open and transparent regarding our expectations. We have all been on the same page in recognising the urgency of needing results to improve. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Russell and his staff for all the hard work and dedication they have given the club on and off the pitch over the last 18 months. Everyone connected with Southampton FC will always have fantastic memories of last season, especially the Play-Off Final win in May.”
Southampton’s only victory in the 2024/25 Premier League season so far came against Everton in November – a 1-0 triumph thanks to Adam Armstrong’s 85th-minute strike. Within 25 minutes, rampant Spurs were already 4-0 ahead as the north London side wreaked havoc at St Mary’s, prompting some of the home faithful to leave inside the opening half an hour while boos rung around the stadium.
In his final interview as Southampton boss, Martin mentioned that he was “hurt” by his side’s “incredibly poor” first-half performance against Spurs. Despite their poor league form, the Saints remain in contention for the Carabao Cup, but face a tough test against Liverpool in the quarter-finals on Wednesday.
The Saints’ statement added: “Behind the scenes, we are encouraged by the continued development of talent coming through our academy. We are proud of the contributions our young players are making and are confident this will remain a source of strength and pride for everyone associated with the club. We are also deeply grateful for the continued support and positivity shown by our fans. We are witnessing first-hand the significant gap between the Championship and the Premier League, but your understanding and passion, even when results have not been what we all want, continue to drive our long term commitment to the club.”
