Southampton Eyeing Russell Martin Return as Will Still Under Pressure

Russell Martin could reportedly make a sensational return to Southampton to get his managerial career back on track after a nightmare spell at Rangers.

Alan Nixon reports on his Patreon that Martin is “on standby” regarding a quick return to football management and could be granted this by his former employers should they opt to dismiss Will Still. The English coach is under huge pressure amid a disappointing run of results since arriving at St Mary’s.

The Saints sit 21st in the EFL Championship after 13 games, with just two wins and five defeats, raising doubts over Still’s future. The struggling south coast outfit could turn to Martin, who oversaw their promotion to the Premier League in 2024 but was sacked in December.

Southampton Add Martin To Managerial Shortlist

Martin spent around 18 months at St Mary’s but saw his three-year contract cut short due to poor form on the club’s return to the Premier League. Results worsened under replacement Ivan Juric, and they were soon sent back down to the second-tier.

The 39-year-old was tasked with guiding Southampton back to the top flight when he signed the deal, and he achieved that goal. He struggled among the elite but achieved the main objective when he took the job back in June 2023.

Martin was appointed Rangers manager in the summer but endured a difficult time at Ibrox with disastrous performances leading to fan revolt. He was dismissed last month and is now available should the likes of the Saints come calling.

Nixon adds that there is also interest from Norwich City, who similarly are pondering the future of their coach, Liam Manning. The Canaries have faltered, and Manning may soon pay the price, as he did when he failed to lead Bristol City to play-off glory last season.

Martin’s availability makes him an enticing option for both of his former clubs because there will be no need to pay compensation for his services. He also knows the Championship well and will be eager to prove himself after the horror showing in Scotland that has tarnished his coaching reputation.

There are still a fair few players at St Mary’s who have previously worked with Martin, which could ease concerns over a bedding-in period. The likes of Ryan Manning, Taylor Harwood-Bellis, and Cameron Archer all played under the Scot.