Martin Goes – Russ set for Southampton move on Monday

There’s been many column inches written this weekend about just how far Russell Martin’s move to Southampton is down the discussion route but Sky Sports today have stated that we are finally at the compensation stage and that the move could be confirmed within the next 24 hours.

The compensation package will include the likes of Matt Gill and any other of the backroom staff that Martin wants to take but, at this stage, is unlikely to involve discussions on any individual players whether Martin wants to take them or not.

The Swans are braced for another managerial hunt after Martin agreed to spearhead the Saints next campaign upon which they have set their eyes on an immediate return to the Premier League after relegation this season.

The Saints are set to finish bottom of the Premier League this time around but will fancy themselves for a return next season although it has already been questioned in several quarters whether Martin is the man to deliver that with his “success” at both MK Dons and Swansea under scrutiny despite his clear belief on how he wants to play football/

That is one that will only play through over time though because for now discussions are ongoing as to how the final package will be agreed with the Swans factoring in the terms of the Martin contract and, of course, the fact that he only has twelve months to run on his current deal.

So with the news now set to become official the Swans will continue a search for yet another manager and look to reset ahead of the new season.   Questions will continue to be asked about the nature of the departure of Martin and how much was down to ambition and how much down to a lack of backing from the owners.

But whatever the answers are to those questions it matters not for now as another manager departs SA1 for pastures new.

What price an opening day fixture against the Saints?