Southampton must thank Russell Martin for his biggest Premier League gift | OneFootball

Southampton fans consider ex-boss Russell Martin as a championship-level manager. But are you aware of Martin's role in pulling one of Southampton's marquiest signings ever?

If given a chance to bring back a previous manager, who would you pick? Now, some would say Ronald Koeman, others might pick Mauricio Pochettino or someone else.

But, one thing's for certain, the name of Saints ex-boss Russell Martin won't contend in this debate.

Well honestly, that makes sense too. While there's no doubt that his approach worked well in his debut season, Martin had a forgettable rough patch in the Top Flight later.

Safe to say, Martin was a great Championship-level manager who ought to fail in the Premier League.

Still, despite these struggles, you would be surprised to know Southampton fans can never be ungrateful to him.

Southampton must thank Russell Martin for his biggest Premier League gift

The reason? So, he was the central figure due to whom Southampton was able to pull out a transfer move for ex-Arsenal man Aaron Ramsdale.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Ramsdale admitted it while going through his Saints journey, saying: "Speaking for myself, I signed for the football club and a big part of that was Russell Martin."

And I don't think I need to tell you what impact this signing has made. In an otherwise unconvincing season, Ramsdale has proven to be Southampton's lone warrior many times.

To note, Southampton's only Premier League wins have come with him between the sticks.

But, what stands out in Ramsdale is his commitment to the Saints. Notably, in an underperforming lineup, the English International was the one who felt he let down boss Rusell Martin.

Now, say it's Ramsdale's connection with Martin or whatever, he is one of the few who seem affected since his departure. In a matter of months, he has had quite a couple of injury breaks already.