Southampton Sacks Manager Russell Martin

Southampton FC has sacked manager Russell Martin following a humiliating 5-0 defeat to Tottenham, which left the team at the bottom of the Premier League with only five points from 15 matches. The club's statement emphasized the challenges of competing in the top flight and acknowledged the board's support for Martin while calling for urgent improvements in results. Martin, who had previously led the club to promotion via the Championship playoffs, faced criticism for only securing one victory and suffering 13 defeats in 16 league games. Simon Rusk, the Under-21s manager, has been appointed as interim manager as the club searches for a permanent replacement. The statement also expressed gratitude for the fans' continued support and highlighted the ongoing development of talent from the academy. Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale noted the players continue to try for Martin, indicating a need for quick recovery ahead of the upcoming Carabao Cup quarter-final against Liverpool.