Tribal Football

Southampton boss Martin challenges players ahead of Prem kickoff

Ansser Sadiq
Southampton boss Martin challenges players ahead of Prem kickoff
Southampton boss Martin challenges players ahead of Prem kickoffAction Plus
Southampton manager Russell Martin believes they can surprise a lot of people this season.

The Saints are back in the Premier League a year after they were relegated to the Championship.

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While they had some poor results in preseason, Martin was happy after a 0-0 draw against Getafe this weekend.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin said: "I think they're in a good place physically.

"I just said to them there that it's been a brilliant pre-season in terms of work and what they've done and how they've conducted themselves and the intensity of it all.

"So I'm glad it's over. I think everyone is now. Pre-season's done. Everyone's just looking forward to the start of the season. I saw a lot of stuff I liked and bits we need to work on.

"Every game I think it's been a progression. The only one I've not enjoyed is Oxford for 60 minutes - I think during pre-season I'll take that.

"So there's a certain level of performance there. They need to stay brave and if they do, we have a real chance of surprising people and having a really enjoyable season."