Southampton parted ways with manager Russell Martin after a crushing 5-0 defeat against Tottenham at St Mary's on Sunday. The loss leaves the Saints rooted to the bottom of the Premier League, with just one win from 16 games and nine points adrift of safety.
The club issued a statement acknowledging the difficult decision, citing the urgency of improving results in their fight for survival. "We all knew the challenges of returning to the top flight, but the reality of our situation is clear," the board said.
Martin, appointed in the summer after guiding Southampton back to the Premier League, has struggled to steady the ship. Speaking after the match, the 38-year-old former Scotland international admitted, "We did not respond well to setbacks, and it's been a recurring issue this season."
Under-21 manager Simon Rusk has been named interim head coach while the club searches for a permanent replacement.
Southampton's defeat to Spurs was particularly painful, as they conceded all five goals in the first half. The club's poor form continues to raise questions about its ability to remain in the top flight.
