Russell Martin to remain Southampton boss regardless of playoff result

The St Mary's side take on Leeds United in the last game of the 2023/24 Championship season, for the final place in next campaign's Premier League.

Martin took over last summer following the club's relegation and has guided them to 87 points and fourth place in the league.

They could still achieve their aim of promotion this season with an all-or-nothing meeting with Leeds at Wembley Stadium on Sunday.

Sport Republic co-owner, Kraft, was asked if Martin will stay in his position regardless of the result, and responded: "Yeah, of course.

Saints boss Russell Martin celebrates with family as Saints reached Wembley (Image: PA)

"We really believe in him, the team and what they're doing and we don't want to be an organisation that changes course all the time. 

"I think we put a lot of carefully planned work into the foundations of the club this season to try and get the right leadership team in place.

"That is both on the football side and the rest of the organisation. We want to build on that for sure."

Some rumours had surfaced elsewhere about Martin's position but Kraft was happy to shut down the suggestions this week.

He added: "This season has had some amazing moments, amazing highs, a lot of last-minute winners and a few last-minute sickeners as well.

"It's been very exciting and a lot more fun when you're winning. I think everyone feels that, the whole organisation, the staff, the fans.

"It's been a lot of fun this year. I think Russell and the whole coaching team have done a great job coming into a difficult situation.

"They gave the whole football department a lift and built what was effectively a new team. There was obviously a lot of change in the teams.

"A lot of players left and a lot of players came in. It was really moulding a new team and a pretty radical change in playing style was implemented fairly quickly.

"I think it's very impressive and I think he's a great guy. We really enjoy working with him .I think he's done a great job. 

"Let's hope we get it over the line on Sunday but otherwise, we prepare for next season and then we go again."

Saints owner Dragan Solak last week issued his message to the Saints fans after they beat West Brom 3-1 at St Mary's in the playoff final.

Sport Republic's Dragan Solak and Henrik Kraft

He, like Kraft, was blown away by the support before and during the crucial clash which put Saints one win from promotion. 

Kraft, giving his message to fans, now insists: "I think we've all got to somehow try and enjoy it haven't we? 

"I think going to Wembley is a special moment. I think we all had a very special moment on Friday night.

"I think the atmosphere was unbelievable. People tell me it's one of the best they have ever experienced at St Mary's. 

"I am really thankful to the fans for making that happen and I think it helped the players. We've got one more to go now and we've just got to try and take in the moment.

"Let's enjoy it as much as we can and hopefully it will fall our way."