Russell Martin assembled a squad of ex-teammates to face a Southampton legends side in an exhibition match for charity on Sunday.
The Southampton legends featured a whole host of familiar faces from yesteryear in the form of the likes of Matt Le Tissier, Francis Benali and James Beattie.
There were also some more recently retired players in Theo Walcott, Shane Long and Jose Fonte as Southampton lost on penalties after a 4-4 draw in normal time.
Russell Martin was joined by the likes of Grant Holt, Wes Hoolahan and Bradley Johnson as he played an hour at centre-back at St Mary’s.
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Russell Martin booed by Southampton supporters
In true pantomime fashion, Saints manager Martin was booed by the St Mary’s crowd every time he touched the ball.
The loudest cheer of the day arguably came when Martin slipped in the first five minutes and the 38-year-old joked after the game that he hoped it was merely a bit of fun from the Southampton supporters.
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Martin told the Daily Echo: “I hope it was banter. The lads were telling me to stay on the ball for as long as possible to see the reaction.
“But once I came off I was met with all the kids who wanted us to sign stuff. I’m really grateful for the support I’ve received since we’ve been here.
“I will never lose perspective of that because I’ve been there as a kid. I will always try and do as many as I can. Apologies if I missed anyone.”
Martin happy to stick to management at Southampton
Martin scored in the shootout up against former Saints goalkeeper Bartosz Bialkowski who had replaced Kelvin Davis, with Beattie and Walcott missing their penalties.
Martin insisted after the game that he enjoyed being back out on the pitch with his former teammates but that he is now very much content with being a manager.
Martin explained: “I’m really fulfilled in my job. I don’t miss playing too much. There has only been a few occasions since becoming a manager where I felt I would love to play on that night.
“It’s lovely (to be back on the pitch). When you’ve dreamt of doing it, playing is the ultimate thing but managing, or coaching, is the next best thing.”
It would have been nice for Martin to enjoy a victory at St Mary’s as this is something he has not done yet this season in his role as Southampton manager.
He will be hoping that changes quickly with Leicester City coming to town on Saturday.