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| ReutersYonhap News |
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| ReutersYonhap News |
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Was he in a hurry to go to the bathroom or knew his future in advance.
Russell Martin 'Jeon'Southampton's action in the 4th minute of extra time in the first half of the 2024-2025 English Premier League (EPL) round home game against Tottenham at St. Mary's Stadium in Southampton, England, drew the attention of fans.
Southampton, at the bottom, showed a severe power gap and allowed consecutive runs to James Maddison (1 minute), Son Heung-min (12 minutes), Dejan Kulusevski (14 minutes) and Pape Sarr (25 minutes) to be dragged to 0-4.
Around the 25th minute of the first half, Southampton home fans were spotted leaving the stadium one by one. Voices calling for Martin's replacement resonated, and the 'hard hanger' was caught.
Director Martin was caught on the broadcast screen at around 3:15 of the second half of the extra time, when Martin left the technical area and headed for the tunnel. Coach Martin did not see Madison score his fifth goal with Son Heung-min's assist in the fourth minute of extra time due to the `early exit.'
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Local media believe Martin knew his fate in advance. Ahead of the match, Wolverhampton, one step above, replaced manager Gary O'Neill. Considering the team's situation of only one win (2 draws and 13 losses, 5 points) in 16 games, including the match against Tottenham, the replacement was almost obvious in the event of defeat on the day.
Martin returned to the ground in the second half and finished the game 0-5 without additional runs. However, shortly after the game, he was notified of his dismissal by the club. The club said they will temporarily take over the baton to Southampton Under-21 Simon Rusk.
Coincidentally, two managers who were hit by Tottenham manager Engie Postecoglou 'Counter Punch' lost their jobs. In October, Manchester United manager Erik tenhach, who lost his position after the 0-3 crushing defeat against Tottenham, was replaced due to poor performance.
Tottenham, who won in four games, jumped one place from 11th to 10th with 23 points. Son Heung-min, who was replaced at half-time, scored one goal and two assists. He broke the club's all-time assist record by recording 68 personal EPL assists.
yoonjinman@sportschosun.com
