Russell Martin is not going to change. It’s probably best to establish that at the outset. Since stepping into the managerial role at Southampton, Martin has become synonymous with a possession-based style of play, one that emphasizes maintaining control of the game through short, intricate passes rather than relying on more direct tactics. This approach has earned him a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most tactically dogmatic bosses.
His method proved successful last season when Southampton gained promotion by defeating Leeds United in the Championship play-off final. Despite facing obstacles along the way, including a mid-season slump that saw Ipswich Town overtake them in the race for automatic promotion, Martin’s commitment to his philosophy—and the results it yielded—remains steadfast.
Now that he has Southampton back in the Premier League, the big question is whether a style built on strict possession will work against stronger competition. Critics wonder if Martin’s insistence on playing out from the back should be adjusted; after all, competing with teams that are simply more skilled poses different challenges. But to assert that a change is coming would be to misunderstand Martin’s fundamental approach to football. Going back to our earlier analogy, it’s as absurd as asking a koala to abandon eucalyptus leaves.
So, why does Martin stick to his beliefs with such fervor? For one, he genuinely believes that controlling the game through possession leads to winning results. In a recent press conference, he stated, “I’m proud of the journey we’re on, but nobody cares about that if you don’t win.” This seems to encapsulate the dilemma: while the players and fans may appreciate a style that emphasizes ball control, the ultimate measure of success is, of course, victories.
Statistical evidence from this season paints a vivid picture of Southampton’s playing style. As of now, they have attempted the fourth-most passes in the Premier League, trailing only the league powerhouses—Manchester City, Liverpool, and Tottenham. With a pass completion rate of 86.3%, they demonstrate their ability to maintain possession, second only to Manchester City. Last season, Southampton dominated the ball across most of their matches, with some games showcasing an absurd 80% possession.
This trend has largely carried over into the current season, as Southampton has managed to maintain the majority of possession in five out of their first seven league games. This statistic exemplifies how uniquely they approach the game—especially when compared to other newly promoted sides like Luton Town and Sheffield United, who struggled to hold similar possession levels.
Martin’s insistence on this distinctive style brings forth both clarity and complexity. He isn’t adhering to this philosophy merely for aesthetics or a desire to gain accolades; rather, he believes that controlling the match through passing—methodically moving toward the opposition’s final third—is essential for success. As he expressed in an interview, this style isn’t random; it’s a conscious strategy for creating and maintaining offensive opportunities.
While possession can be a key defensive strategy—essentially keeping the ball away from opponents—Southampton’s commitment can backfire. When playing against teams with superior talent, mistakes can be costly. In the previous season, Southampton made 15 errors leading to shots by opponents, a figure that has already reached ten in just seven games this year. The root cause of these errors often stems from the aggressive environment of the Premier League, where better opponents can exploit any lapses in concentration.
Beyond their defensive struggles, Southampton faces challenges in converting possession into goals. Struggling to create clear chances has left them with just four goals this season—unfortunately, the lowest in the division. Their shot quality has not only been poor, with only 8% classified as “clear” chances, but they are also struggling to convert what few opportunities they create.
There are likely multiple explanations for this predicament. The most straightforward reasoning might be the lack of clinical finishing among their strikers, which includes players who have underwhelming records in the top flight. A more tactical viewpoint considers how their proclivity for possession forces them into protracted, complex build-ups, which generally allow opposing defenses more time to regroup. The quality of Southampton’s playmakers is also under scrutiny; they simply do not have the level of talent that elite teams possess to break through organized defenses effectively.
Additional context surrounding Southampton’s performance this season reveals structural issues, as well. The summer transfer window was tumultuous; several key targets slipped through their fingers. While they managed to secure goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale at the end of August, the delay left them vulnerable at the start of the season. The squad itself seems bloated with 32 senior players, raising questions about effective squad management.
It’s also worth noting the turnover in the team, with 26 different players getting game time already due to Martin’s frequent adjustments to his starting line-up. This not only shows a lack of consistency but also poses risks associated with player cohesion. Despite the frequent changes, Martin remains confident in his methods, urging players to trust the process.
As Southampton gears up for an important home match against Leicester City, with a mixed fixture list to follow including tough away games against the likes of Manchester City and Everton, the pressure is mounting. If they continue to struggle without victories, not only will fan frustration grow, but the board’s patience may also wear thin.
Martin is acutely aware of the stakes. He directly addressed the necessity for results to convince new players of the merits of his tactical vision, emphasizing how those who have been aboard since the previous season have witnessed firsthand the fruits of his labor. “If you stick with it through the tough moments, the reward is really big,” he remarked.
The upcoming fixtures are critical for Southampton’s season trajectory. If Martin’s unwavering stance can turn the current struggles around, there is hope for a more thrilling story in the Premier League this season—one that’s defined by a team committed to a distinct and bold style in the face of adversity. Yet, for the time being at least, it’s evident that Russell Martin is not going to change.