Southampton have dismissed manager Russell Martin following the heavy 5-0 defeat by Tottenham Hotspur at St. Mary’s in the Premier League on Sunday, Afrosport reports.
The 38-year-old led the Saints to promotion last season by beating Leeds United in the Championship play-off final at Wembley.
Southampton have however failed to start the season strongly with only one win and 13 losses from 16 games which has kept them bottom of the log with five points.
Under-21 manager will now take over the first team until a permanent manager is found.
Martin’s dismissal comes just hours after Gary O’Neil parted ways with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
“We can confirm that we have taken the difficult decision to part ways with our Men’s First Team Manager, Russell Martin,” read a statement on the club website.
“Going into the start of the season, we all knew the challenges that we would face this year as we readjusted to life in the top flight, competing in the best and most competitive league in the world.
“However, the reality of our situation is clear. The board have supported Russell and his staff and been open and transparent regarding our expectations. We have all been on the same page in recognising the urgency of needing results to improve.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank Russell and his staff for all the hard work and dedication they have given the club on and off the pitch over the last 18 months. Everyone connected with Southampton FC will always have fantastic memories of last season, especially the Play-Off Final win in May.”
Southampton will next face Fulham away from home before they host West Ham United and travel to Crystal Palace to round up the year.
