'I'm Told' - Expert: Southampton to make Russell Martin sack decision

Southampton are now expected to part ways with Russell Martin after a dismal start to their return to Premier League football.

This is according to former Man United, West Ham and Aston Villa scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the manager’s refusal to adapt his style has led to his downfall.

A 3-2 defeat against fellow newly promoted side Leicester could now prove the final nail in the coffin for the boss as his side remains winless after eight games.

Martin’s side have conceded 18 goals in that time, and have shipped three goals in games against Cardiff, Brentford, Man United, Bournemouth, Arsenal and Leicester already.

Their style of playing out from the back leaves them open defensively and has contributed to their lack of success so far this season.

This comes after Football Insider revealed on 21 October that Martin is “on the brink” of being sacked and the club have already shortlisted possible replacements.

Southampton set to sack Russell Martin after Leicester defeat

Despite constant errors in their play, Martin has remained determined to continue with the style which won them promotion from the Championship.

Brown, who worked closely with under-pressure managers during his spells at Aston Villa, West Ham and Sunderland, insisted it is that decision which will cost the boss his job – and that he can have no complaints when he does.

“Time’s running out for him,” he told Football Insider.

“It’s the time of year now, October-November, when the clubs feel they have to make a decision, and I’m told they’ll make one soon.

“I’ve been surprised hearing his interviews when he’s insisted they will continue to play the same way despite the obvious failings.

“He wants his teams to play the same way in the last five minutes as they do in the first five minutes, but it doesn’t work that way.

“They make constant mistakes at the back and just can’t seem to defend.

“A big part of that is down to him.

“I know people who have told me this, he’s determined to stick to his guns and play in the same style regardless of the results.

“But if you keep losing games and keep conceding goals, you can’t complain when you ultimately get the sack.”

In other news, Russell Martin sack update as Southampton line up replacement.

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The post 'I'm Told' - Expert: Southampton to make Russell Martin sack decision appeared first on Football Insider.