Russell Martin has been sacked by Southampton after the 5-0 defeat to Tottenham.
The Saints suffered the humiliating defeat at home on Sunday night and shortly afterwards the club confirmed that they had parted ways with the coach.
In a statement they said: ‘We can confirm that we have made the difficult decision to part ways with our Men’s First Team Manager, Russell Martin.
‘At the start of the season we all knew the challenges we would face this year as we adjusted to life in the top flight and competed in the best and most competitive league in the world. However, the reality of our situation is clear.
“The board has supported Russell and his staff and has been open and transparent about our expectations. We have all been on the same page in recognizing 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 to the club on and off the pitch over the last eighteen months.
Southampton have fired Russell Martin after their 5-0 defeat to Tottenham on Sunday evening
The Saints have won just one of their Premier League games in the 2024/2025 season
“Anyone associated with Southampton FC will always have fantastic memories of last season, especially the Play-Off Final victory in May. Current Under-21s Manager Simon Rusk will take charge of the team on an interim basis until we announce a permanent replacement.
“Behind the scenes, we are encouraged by the continued development of talent coming through our Academy. We are proud of the contributions our young players make and are confident this will continue to be a source of strength and pride for everyone involved with the club.
“We are also very grateful for the continued support and positivity from our fans. We have witnessed first-hand the significant gap between the Championship and the Premier League, but your understanding and passion, even if the results are not what we all want, continues to drive our long-term commitment to the club.”
Southampton have had a dismal Premier League season so far, winning just one game
Martin was appointed as Southampton boss in June 2023 after previously being in charge of MK Dons and Swansea.
Last season, Martin guided Southampton to promotion to the Premier League as they defeated Leeds in the Championship play-off final.
However, Southampton have had a dismal start to the Premier League season, sitting bottom of the table with just five points from their opening 16 games, including just one win.
So far this season in the league, Southampton have scored just 11 goals while conceding 36 times.
Southampton hosts Liverpool in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday. Four days later they play Fulham away in the Premier League.