Russell Martin, the manager of Southampton, has criticized the misconception that his team lacks forward-thinking play, although he acknowledges the need to enhance the tempo of their game.
Southampton has managed to recover from a sluggish start to the season and currently holds the fifth position in the Championship standings. They have secured victory in three of their last five Championship matches and are showing the potential that had them labeled as promotion contenders at the beginning of the season.
Criticism has been directed at Southampton’s style of play, with suggestions that they rely too much on sideways passing and lack the initiative to advance the ball.
Martin vehemently disputes this view, citing statistics that indicate his team plays forward-thinking football. However, he does concede that their pace and rhythm must improve to continue their development as a team.
During a press conference, Martin stated, “It is an oversimplified assumption that we are not focused on forward passes. We have had the most touches in the opposition box, numerous entries into the final third, and one of the highest shot counts. But there are moments when the tempo of the game needs adjustment.”
Martin will be hoping for his team to sustain their progress with another victory when they face Birmingham City at St. Mary’s on Saturday.
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