JUST IN: Leeds United PL promotion slayer slams and mocks Leeds while reflecting at MAJOR reason why Leeds lose against Soton at Wembley while making scrappy Sunderland promotion prediction.
Former Swansea City head coach Russell Martin has stated that he doesn’t feel any pressure despite the criticism surrounding Southampton’s performances this season.
The Saints have started the Premier League campaign with three consecutive losses, a situation similar to when Martin first took over the club last year.
Martin assumed the role after Southampton’s relegation from the Premier League in 2023, and his tenure got off to a rough start, with four straight losses early in the Championship season.
However, Southampton managed to turn things around, finishing in the playoff spots and eventually defeating Leeds United in the playoff final at Wembley in May to secure promotion back to the top flight.
“It’s part of the job. I don’t enjoy it, but it’s not a problem and it doesn’t overwhelm me,” Martin said.
“Last season was similar, we had a tough spell early on, and people can say whatever they want, often judging us based on an eight-minute highlight reel. I treat it all the same.
“The same people who criticized us after losing four games last season later praised the job we did at the end of the campaign. Some called me a terrible appointment and said changes were needed after those losses. The same will happen now, with people speaking out after three defeats, but I handle it all in the same way.”
Southampton, currently second-bottom with no points after three games, are set to face 14th-placed Manchester United on Saturday.
Martin acknowledged that his team is still adjusting to the higher “level of competition” in the Premier League, and hinted at lineup changes despite his loyalty to the players who helped secure promotion.
“After three losses, there will inevitably be changes. How many and who? You’ll have to wait and see. It’s a tough position because I feel a strong sense of loyalty to the players who got us to the Premier League,” Martin said.
“I have to balance that loyalty with the reality of how some of those players are performing now and the current state they’re in.”