Russell Martin eager to return to Premier League and open to overseas managerial move

Former Southampton manager Russell Martin has admitted he does not see himself returning to the Premier League any time soon and remains open to a managerial move overseas.

Martin was sacked by Southampton in December last year as the club finished bottom of the Premier League after losing 13 of 16 league games. The 39-year-old coach led the club to promotion to the Premier League in his first season in charge but has struggled in the top flight.

Speaking about his future on Monday Night Football, Martin said: "I'm realistic. I don't think I'll ever get another chance to coach in the Premier League."

"Many managers who are promoted from the Championship face doubts, and people will say, 'Oh, he may not be qualified to coach in the Premier League', but this is not necessarily fair. After all, these coaches are the heroes who led the team to successful promotion, and the newly promoted team may not have fully adapted to the intensity of competition in the Premier League."

"In recent years, there have been only a handful of managers appointed directly from the Championship to Premier League clubs, with Nathan Jones and Graham Potter being the only ones. Others must first lead their teams to the Premier League and try to stay there before they can be considered successful."

Talking about his future, Martin added: "I am open to going abroad or continuing to coach in England. I am eager to return to the Premier League. After all, I have tasted it. I believe I have the ability to stand on this stage again, but everything remains to be seen."

As for whether he will stick with the possession-based tactical style in his new club, Martin joked: “Maybe we will play more directly!”