RussellnMartin: ‘It was great being on the pitch but I prefer being on the sidelines now’

The retired defender pulled together a Russell Martin XI to face a Saints Legends side to raise funds for various charities on Sunday. Martin's side were victorious thanks to a penalty shootout after a 4-4 draw in regular time - Matt Le Tissier scoring from the spot in the final minutes to send the game to penalties. “I really enjoyed it," Martin told the Daily Echo. "I’m feeling knackered now. It was great being on the pitch with so many old teammates.  “It was great to be back in the dressing room, it was like you’ve never been away. It was great to play against so many Saints legends. “I’m really grateful for how many people turned up. It was a pleasure to be on the pitch. It was Martin's responsibility to pull together his former teammates from the various clubs he turned out for during his playing career. Russell Martin almost completes 60 minutes and gets his applause off.#SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/DQEcdiAbOJ — Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 13, 2024 “It didn’t take much roping up,” Martin quipped. “I set up a massive group chat and asked who wanted to play. “I had to try and trim the numbers to 16. There was a few left out who are not happy today so I apologise to them. All of them wanted to be here and I’m really grateful to them for that.” Martin does not shy away from getting involved with Saints training sessions but this was a chance for him to get back on the pitch in a game environment. “I’m really fulfilled in my job," he continued. "I don’t miss playing too much. There has only been a few occasions since becoming a manager where I felt I would love to play on that night. “It’s lovely (to be back on the pitch). When you’ve dreamt of doing it, playing is the ultimate thing but managing, or coaching, is the next best thing. Russell Martin (Image: Southampton FC) “I prefer being on the sideline now, probably because of my physical condition these days, but it was great being back out there and doing what you’ve done since being a kid.” Martin received pantomime boos from the supporters every time he touched the ball in the early minutes. However, he was met with a different reaction when he left the field as a large group of youngsters immediately swarmed around the bench. “I hope it was banter,” Martin smiled. “The lads were telling me to stay on the ball for as long as possible to see the reaction. “But once I came off I was met with all the kids who wanted us to sign stuff. I’m really grateful for the support I’ve received since we’ve been here. “I will never lose perspective of that because I’ve been there as a kid. I will always try and do as many as I can. Apologies if I missed anyone. 🙂👈 @theowalcottHe's still got it 👏 — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) October 13, 2024 “The fans are always the most important part of a club. We try to keep them pleased as much as possible. “Sometimes, if it isn’t with results, it’s about being as open and inviting as you can be.  Even now in the tough times, the support has been brilliant." Martin's shining moment was scoring a penalty past former Saints stopper Bartosz Bialkowski to kickstart his side's penalty shootout win. Asked if he was nervous stepping up to the spot, Martin said: “No, I told Bart which way I was going as well. "I was only nervous that I might pull my calf because I’d been off the pitch for some time by then.”