CEO Phil Parsons believes manager Russell Martin has had a "really good year" as Saints boss and is "learning all the time."

Martin earned 87 points during his first campaign as Southampton manager and could still get promoted via the playoffs.

The manager has come under fire from some sections of supporters this year but has impressed his bosses with his work ethic and ability to create a "good vibe" at Staplewood.

Asked how the ownership structure feel about Martin's future no matter the outcome of the playoffs, Parsons insisted they want someone for a long-term project.

Speaking ahead of Southampton's 0-0 draw with West Brom at the Hawthorns, he told BBC Radio Solent: “Russell has had a really good year.

"He is a young manager and is learning a lot. I don’t think Southampton want to be a club that have three or four managers a season.

Daily Echo: Russell Martin's Saints finished fourth in the ChampionshipRussell Martin's Saints finished fourth in the Championship (Image: PA)

“We want someone who is part of a project longer term. We like that we hear adaptations and I personally see Russell on the training field.

“The guy puts in many more hours than you expect - especially with the younger players coming through.

“We want the playoffs to go really well. Hopefully, we have a longer-term project with everyone who is involved.

He continued: “One thing Russell has done is he has brought a really good vibe to the place.

“The energy is really good. Anybody who runs a business knows you need good energy in the place.

“You need people feeling good. If you have got a team who are not feeling good then you are one step back straight away.

“Russell has done a good job with that. We also want people on their toes to achieve things and not stand still at the club.”