The recent dismal form of Southampton has put pressure on Russell Martin, but he feels the owners are understanding.
Martin highlights the importance of patience and togetherness as the club undergoes big changes and attempts to implement a new operational model.
The Saints began the new season with a winning streak that has come to an end in recent weeks.
The South Coast team has now lost four consecutive league games, slipping to 15th in the rankings as a result.
Despite the poor run, the squad is still only three points out of the play-off places, and it is still early in the season.
However, another setback next weekend would simply add insult to injury.
The pressure is on at St. Mary’s, so a win over Leeds United may be a watershed moment in Martin’s term.
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During their 18 months in ownership of Southampton, the club’s owners have already supervised three managerial changes.
Martin is certain that Sport Republic understands the difficult position at Southampton behind the scenes.
The 37-year-old believes that patience will be essential to his success at the club.
“I think so, yeah,” Martin replied when asked if the Saints chiefs appreciate the current position, according to The Athletic.
“There has been a lot that has happened.
“They’ve made significant changes at the football club.”
“Listen, we shouldn’t have lost as many games as we did, but I don’t think they were expecting a magic wand.”
“Yesterday I said the club has embarked on a journey and what I meant by that was with us [coaches] as well, not the players, with Jason, the chief exec, so many new people, a different way of behaving — all that stuff you don’t see when you’re not there every day.”And I don’t think it’s ever easy to attempt to do something completely different.”This is a time to be really brave, to stick together and get through it together.”
“You either do or you don’t. That’s how football works.”
During this difficult run, Southampton has lost to Leicester City, Ipswich Town, Sunderland, and Middlesbrough.
During this time, the squad has conceded 12 goals and scored only two, reducing their goal difference.
Despite this, a win over Leeds next weekend may return the team to the top half of the table and within striking distance of the top six.
It is too early to suggest a management replacement, but form must improve quickly because Martin will be under a lot of pressure if this losing streak continues.
Is Russell Martin the right person to take Southampton forward?
Martin’s time at Swansea also took some time to get going, but by the end of his term, the team was doing admirably.
Giving him some patience during this difficult time is the prudent option for the time being, as their promotion chances remain quite strong.
The Leeds game will be crucial since Daniel Farke’s side is in fantastic form and will compete with the Saints for promotion this season.
Martin would be under a lot of pressure if they lose for the fifth time in a row, so even a draw on Saturday could be enough to quell any dissident voices.
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