Southampton sacked coach Russell Martin in the wake of their 5-0 defeat at home to Tottenham on Sunday afternoon.

The defeat leaves 'the Saints' rock bottom of the Premier League with just five points after 13 defeats in their first 16 games after Martin led them to promotion last season with a win over Leeds United in the Championship play-off final.

Sunday's defeat saw Southampton fall apart in defense, as it trailed 3-0 after just 14 minutes and 4-0 after 25 minutes. The club has scored just 11 goals all season, with its only win coming against Everton.

"Going into the start of the season, we all knew the challenges that we would face this year as we readjusted to life in the top flight, competing in the best and most competitive league in the world. However, the reality of our situation is clear. The board have supported Russell and his staff and been open and transparent regarding our expectations," explained Southampton in a statement confirming Martin's departure.

"We have all been on the same page in recognizing the urgency of needing results to improve," continued the statement.

Martin himself had admitted that he was embarrassed at Southampton's points total in his press conference before the Tottenham match.

Under-21 coach Simon Rusk will take temporary charge of the team and will be in the dugout for Wednesday's Carabao Cup quarterfinal at home to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Wednesday.

Southampton joins Wolverhampton Wanderers in looking for a new coach after the club who is one place above them in the standings sacked its coach Gary O'Neil on Sunday.

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