By kickspoll 
Southampton manager Russell Martin is under growing pressure, and the upcoming international break could be key in determining his future, according to a new report.
The Saints are still looking for their first win in the Premier League under Martin. In their last outing, they were brushed aside by AFC Bournemouth 3-1, leaving Martin “hurt by the lack of spirit and fight shown by his team.” This came after Southampton threw away a 1-0 lead at home to Ipswich Town in the dying moments.
These results have placed Martin under significant pressure. It was reported last week that Southampton were monitoring West Brom boss Carlos Corberan. The Southampton hierarchy is said to be interested in Corberan, but they face competition from Leeds United, who are also eyeing the Spaniard.
Corberan, who has guided West Brom to 16 points from their first eight games of the Championship season, reportedly has a £2 million release clause in his contract. His possession-based style of play has attracted Southampton’s attention.
As of now, Martin remains in charge, but that could change depending on their next league game before the international break.
According to TBR Football, Southampton are considering Martin’s position, and a change could be made during the international break. The club’s majority owner, Dragan Solak, has a “major ambition” for Southampton to establish themselves in the Premier League, but he has been left “reeling” from their poor start.
Sporting director Rasmus Ankersen is also under pressure. While Martin is the most immediate risk, Solak could decide to dismiss both Martin and Ankersen in the coming weeks.
**Russell Martin’s Southampton record:**
– **Games:** 62
– **Won:** 32
– **Drawn:** 12
– **Lost:** 18
This is Martin’s first time managing in the Premier League, with previous roles at MK Dons in League One and Swansea City in the Championship. He has managed over 200 games in England, with a record of 99 wins, 55 draws, and 87 losses, averaging 1.46 points per game, though that figure has dropped as Southampton struggle to secure victories.
Southampton are back in action this Saturday, looking to recover from Monday’s disappointing loss to Bournemouth. However, it won’t get any easier for Martin as his side faces Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.