Russell Martin’s Unwavering Principles Led to Southampton Dismissal, Says Rory Smith

New York Times Chief Football Correspondent Rory Smith asserts that the “principles” which secured Russell Martin the Southampton managerial position “have now cost him.” Martin, whose dismissal occurred Sunday evening following a 5-0 defeat by Tottenham, had maintained his commitment to a possession-based passing approach, a style instrumental in their promotion from the Championship last season. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Monday Night Club, Smith commented, “I think given the results, it’s not a surprise that Southampton decided they had to do something.” He further noted the significant financial stakes involved in maintaining Premier League status, adding, “There’s an awful lot of money riding on staying in the Premier League.” Smith concluded this point by stating, “It is hard to make the case that they’ve acted rashly, or harshly, or unthinkably. Everyone looking at the Premier League table can understand it.” Smith expressed sympathy for Martin, remarking, “I do feel bad for Russell Martin on the grounds that he was a manager who had principles and believed in the long-term benefits of standing by those principles. It looks on the outside that he hasn’t been willing to bend those principles and that’s cost him his job.” Despite Martin’s departure, Smith observed that the potential candidates to succeed him are managers who employ a very similar tactical approach. He indicated there is “no sort of suggestion that Southampton are going to do something completely different,” anticipating the club will seek “a high-pressing, expansive type football manager.” Smith speculated that “Maybe it’s just that his voice wasn’t working, and it was his principles that got him the job that have now cost him.”