Southampton Manager Russell Martin Critical of First-Half Performance

Following today’s defeat, Southampton manager Russell Martin told TNT Sports that he felt “hurt in the first half.” He noted that the team’s collective response to adversity was inadequate, a pattern observed frequently throughout the current season. Martin specifically highlighted the team’s “very poor” reaction subsequent to conceding the initial goal. Martin expressed profound disappointment, stating that the team had developed a strategy and undergone a week of training, with players actively participating in its formulation. However, he lamented the significant lack of required intensity or aggression in their execution. He remarked, “I didn’t recognise our team in the first half.” Despite this, he added, “But I am pleased they stuck out in the second half.” He emphasized the current imperative for the team, stating, “At this point, it is about pride and showing some care for each other.” Addressing the supporters, Martin commented, “They were amazing in the second half. Really good.” When asked if he was affected by the boos, Martin responded that “As a person, no. Because I understand that it’s not personal.” However, he conceded that “as a manager, yes. It hurts me as well as the team. But I also understand it.” Regarding the future, Martin affirmed, “We have no choice but to keep working and fighting. It’s what I have been doing in this job and I will continue doing it until I am told not to.”