Context: Southampton’s Close Matches and Performance Under Martin
Southampton, led by Russell Martin, have faced a series of narrow defeats in the Premier League this season. Despite playing well, the team has been unlucky, including their recent match where Sam Morsy’s added-time strike led to a frustrating draw. Martin’s belief that the team has been unlucky is backed by Opta’s expected points data, which ranks Southampton as high as 12th in the table. Saints are yet to secure their first win, but Martin remains optimistic about their progress.
Russell Martin on Southampton’s Frustration and Progress:
Martin: “I think it makes me really frustrated but it also tells us, in the same way it did at this time last season, that we’re really not very far away. We have an awareness of what’s hurt us for sure and what we need to tweak but we have an awareness of what’s really working in the Premier League.”
Context: Tactical Adjustments and Approach
Martin discussed the team’s ongoing adjustments, highlighting how they’ve tried different formations to find the best way to win. He remains confident that the team will earn the points they deserve and continues to adapt, not out of fear, but with a clear plan in mind.
Martin on Tactical Tweaks and Finding Success:
Martin: “We’re not sat here just trying to do the same thing. We had 45 games in one shape last year and then changed because we felt that was the best way to win. This year we played a few different shapes we’re trying to find really the best way to win. I feel like we’re doing that every single game.”
Context: Southampton’s Determination to Succeed
Martin encourages his team to use their frustration as fuel to grow, rather than suffering through it. He believes in the quality of his group and trusts that they will eventually earn the points they deserve.
Martin’s Message to the Players:
Martin: “We should have more points, we should be higher up in the table but we’re not, so sometimes that is football and that is life. You can choose to suffer through the pain or you choose to grow through it and use it as fuel. I always know what my choice is and I said to the players we have that choice. We have a brilliant group here that can continue to do that and I think they know that when we’re adapting and tweaking we’re not doing it out of fear.”
Context: Southampton’s Upcoming Match
Southampton will be looking for their first win of the season as they face AFC Bournemouth on Monday, September 30. Martin will also be seeking his first victory as a Premier League manager.
