Russell Martin has been sacked as Southampton boss after suffering a chastening 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 guided the club to promotion from the Championship via the play-offs last season, but struggled to impose his possession-heavy 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’s 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.
The Saints board initially stuck with Martin despite their poor form, but dismissed the former Swansea and MK Dons boss after they were thrashed by Spurs on Sunday in front of the TNT Sports cameras.
Spurs were 4-0 ahead inside 25 minutes 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 told TNT Sports 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.”
