Concerning issue behind Southampton's shambolic campaign comes to light | OneFootball

Southampton's 2024/25 Premier League miseries reflect shades of their uninspiring performances. But, notice what ex-boss Russell Martin reveals as the most stressful task he overcame during his Southampton days.

With respect to the Premier League, Southampton have shown almost negligible progress in the previous couple of years. Comparing their current standings to that of two seasons ago, the Saints have massively regressed in terms of points as well as playing mentality.

As evidence, Southampton battled end-to-end with fellow bottom table clubs during the 2022/23 campaign until giving up with only a month left to play. Talking about the present scenario, the club seems to have convinced themselves regarding their inevitable Championship drop long before.

At this stage, Southampton fans may point fingers at various shortcomings and they aren't wrong either. Ultimately, a mismanaged squad rebuild and a passive matchday approach don't do any favours to a team lacking experience and quality needed to remain in the top-flight.

Still, Southampton's non-negotiable priorities must include uplifting the morale in a youth dominated roster.

Martin adamant Southampton's attitude is biggest stumbling block

In this area, former Saint Russell Martin has conveyed a thought-provoking verdict about the concerning attitude of the current first-team.

Talking to Sky Sports, Martin was quoted by the Daily Echo: "The biggest challenge for me was convincing everyone they belonged there and without evidence of winning games, that becomes really difficult."

On the flip side, Martin's claim justifies Southampton's momentarily turnarounds.

Remember the Saints' October Premier League run? The club gave a tough challenge to Arsenal, Leicester City and Manchester City before going on to claim their inaugural top-flight victory.