Exclusive: Southampton board make decision over Russell Martin's future as manager
Today at 02:36 AM
- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Southampton have made a torrid start to the Premier League season following their promotion from the Championship.
Southampton remain winless in their opening eight games and are languishing in the relegation zone following their 3-2 defeat to Leicester City.
TBR Football reported earlier this month that Southampton were prepared to sack Russell Martin if his side lost to Leicester.
However, that stance has changed slightly as our transfer correspondent Graeme Bailey provides the latest.
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Southampton board prepared to give Russell Martin more time
TBR Football understands that despite their desperate loss to relegation rivals Leicester City at the weekend, Southampton are not yet ready to call time on Russell Martin’s tenure.
St Mary’s sources have told TBR that Southampton owner Dragan Solak has been contemplating the future of Martin and the defeat to Leicester at the weekend looked like being the last straw.
However, we understand that despite the 3-2 loss, the Saints hierarchy believe there are still some positives to take from the performances under Martin.
Sources believe that Martin will get until the next international window in mid-November to turn things around.
Saints have two fixtures against relegation-rivals leading up to the break.
Southampton should look at Michael Carrick if Martin leaves
If Martin does end up leaving St Mary’s, Southampton should try to appoint Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick.
The former Manchester United assistant plays a very similar style of play to Martin, though, he is more adaptable.
Plus, he’s already worked with Cameron Archer at Boro and was able to get the best out of the young forward.
Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter should also be considered, as should David Moyes – if Solak wants to turn to a more pragmatic approach.
