Russell Martin has been looking ahead to Southampton’s Premier League clash against Manchester United as he addressed the media in his pre-match press-conference.
Russell Martin will be starting to get used to the increased scrutiny associated with being a Premier League manager, with far more interest in his Southampton press-conferences than in the Championship last season.
The fact Southampton have started the season with three defeats from three in the league combined with the fact Martin’s possession-based style has led to criticism has only served to increase that scrutiny.
Martin hinted after the 3-1 loss away at Brentford prior to the international break that there would be changes to his Southampton line-up ahead of Manchester United and his comments to the media on Thursday suggest this has not changed.
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Russell Martin explains Southampton selection dilemma ahead of Man Utd
Martin has largely trusted the players that were at the club last season so far this campaign, with only two new faces in the starting XI against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest before Aaron Ramsdale became the third against Brentford.
However, Martin admitted there would now be a different feel to the side, saying: “I think after three defeats there inevitably will be changes. How many you’ll have to wait and see and who.”
The Saints boss then explained the internal struggle he has when bringing players out of the side, as he said: “But also it’s such a difficult position because I feel fiercely loyal to some players who helped get us to the Premier League and I’ve been in that position.
“So, I have to balance that loyalty and what they did last season with what some are doing now and the place they’re in right now and also the level of talent that’s come in the builidng.
“They need some time to adapt but we’ve brought in some really brilliant players so it’s about timing of when to bring them into the team.”
Despite this, Martin did conclude by admitting that trust can only go so far, adding: “I think now it’s inevitable that changes will be made and people will have opportunities that they need to take.”
Who could come into Southampton starting XI against Man Utd?
With Martin’s comments in mind, Southampton fans can look forward to seeing a shake-up to the side at St Mary’s for Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off.
One major change could be to the shape, as Martin may see fit to switch back to the 4-3-3 that served Southampton so well last season having started this campaign playing with a back three.
18-year-old midfielder Tyler Dibling could be handed his first start after continuing his impressive cameos off the bench on international duty, whilst Cameron Archer could also come into the side to add some firepower up front.
Deadline Day signing Maxwel Cornet could also be in contention after Martin confirmed the West Ham loanee will be in the squad.