SAINTS manager Russell Martin admitted he sent John Mousinho a text after Portsmouth secured promotion to the Championship on Tuesday evening.

The pair played with each other for England colleges under-18s before going on to enjoy successful playing careers.

Portsmouth have been crowned League One champions and could be in the same division as Saints next season should Martin's side not get promoted.

It would be the first time the South Coast derby clubs have been in the same division since 2011-12 when Pompey were relegated and Saints got promoted. 

"He is a good guy and is really intelligent," said Martin. "To stress, this is about John and not Portsmouth. I texted him yesterday to say 'You're making this management lark look easy.'

"Andy Cullen, the chief executive of Portsmouth, is a guy who gave me a massive opportunity at MK Dons and someone who I have a lot of time and respect for.

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"I messaged him as well. I'm pleased the young British manager is getting an opportunity again. I'm pleased for John personally because he's a good person.

"I'm pleased for Andy because he's a really good person. It doesn't mean I'm pleased that Portsmouth Football Club got promoted.

"But I also think it's only a good thing for football down the South Coast. For them to do what they've done and the way they've done it is a great achievement.

"Congratulations to them and now it's our job to make sure we experience our own success in a couple of weeks."