'Actually': Russell Martin says he regrets what he told Southampton players on the pitch after 3-1 defeat

Today at 11:15 AM

Russell Martin is still searching for his first win in Premier League management as Southampton continue to struggle.

The Saints have suffered five defeats in six Premier League outings so far in the 2024/25 campaign, leaving them 19th in the table as things stand.

Southampton fans will have hoped to see a passionate, committed response to the many defeats of late in Monday’s South Coast derby against Bournemouth, although a pathetic display ensued as the Cherries found themselves 3-0 up at the interval.

The Saints went on to lose 3-1 at the Vitality Stadium, and Russell Martin told the BBC that he actually shouldn’t have said one thing to his players after the defeat.

Russell Martin says he regrets praising Southampton effort levels

The 38-year-old revealed that he thanked his players for “running and fighting” in the second half against Bournemouth, but admitted in his interview after the game that it was misguided praise.

Martin – who was linked to Rangers in 2021 – said: “After starting well, literally the first setback we have in the game they score. I’m coming off the pitch at the end of the game and I thanked them for running and fighting in the second half, and actually I don’t think you should ever thank them for that, that should be the bare minimum.”

Southampton were well and truly turned over in the opening 45 minutes – aside from a powerful volley from Ryan Fraser which tested Kepa Arrizabalaga – as goals from Evanilson, Dango Ouattara and Antoine Semenyo put Bournemouth in control.

Of course, the Saints delivered a stronger display after the break, winning the second half 1-0 after Taylor Harwood-Bellis scored in the 51st minute, but ultimately, it was not good enough, and Martin was wrong to praise his players for doing the bare minimum in terms of effort levels.

Who could replace Martin at St Mary’s

Martin only signed a new three-year contract as recently as July, so it would be a surprise if Southampton sacked him now.

However – should this winless streak continue – those in the boardroom at St Mary’s will surely consider a change in the dugout, so let’s take a look at who is available.

At the time of writing, Graham Potter is out of work, and has been since receiving his P45 at Chelsea back in April 2023.

Furthermore, Frank Lampard and David Moyes – who is ready for a Premier League return – are available, as is Gareth Southgate after he departed his role as England boss in July.

Therefore, Southampton have several options who could take the reins from Martin if results fail to improve.