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Absolute “MADNESS” can’t believe this”- Paul Merson has labeled Russell Martin’s tactics at Southampton as “madness” following their ineffective attempts at attacking midfield agead of LeicesterCity clash.
Paul Merson has criticized Russell Martin’s tactics at Southampton, describing them as “madness” following their struggles with attacking football since returning to the Premier League.
In his Premier League prediction column for Sky Sports, Merson argued that Southampton’s approach has become “too predictable,” adding that there’s “no point” in playing attractive football if the team continues to lose each week.
Martin has been firm in his commitment to a possession-based strategy, which has resulted in just one point from Southampton’s first seven matches, placing him under significant pressure.
Speculation about the 38-year-old’s future at St. Mary’s has escalated during the international break, with reports suggesting he is “one game away” from being dismissed. Southampton has managed only two wins in nine games across all competitions, both in the EFL Cup, where they have reached the fourth round and will face Stoke City next week.
Merson expressed his frustration with Southampton’s style, stating, “I feel Southampton are far too predictable. If they continue on this path, it could be curtains for them soon.”
He pointed out the difference in strategy compared to teams like Manchester City, where players like Ederson create scoring chances by quickly distributing the ball. “It drives me crazy when teams like Southampton try to replicate that; it’s madness! You can only be considered a good manager if you avoid defeats. What’s the point of playing attractive football if you lose every week?”
Merson emphasized the need for teams to adapt when their initial strategy isn’t working in order to survive in the league.
Despite winning promotion with a remarkable 65.5% possession, Martin has stuck to his ball-dominant tactics in the Premier League. Southampton currently ranks fifth in average possession (57.4%) among all 20 clubs, trailing only Manchester City, Tottenham, Liverpool, and Brighton.
The south coast club is set to face a more favorable run of fixtures in the coming weeks, with upcoming matches against fellow bottom-five teams Leicester, Everton, and Wolves, offering them a chance to turn their season around.
