Sacked Southampton coach Russell Martin has defended his decision to haul off Kamaldeen Sulemana after just 15 minutes of play.
Kamaldeen made his first start for the Saints following a campaign blighted by injuries, but it turned out to be a night to forget on Monday when Spurs put three past Southampton just before a quarter of an hour played.
Despite eventually losing 5-0, Russell said the substitution “made sense.”
“We were 3-0 down in 14 minutes. We had to change the shape,” he said.
“So I feel for Kamaldeen, but we knew he was going to have to come off early at some point, he hasn’t played a lot, 55-60 was going to be his max. It made sense.”
Southampton relieved Martin of his duties after the thrashing by Tottenham, which left them nine points adrift of safety.
Under-21 manager Simon Rusk will take charge on an interim basis until a permanent coach is appointed.
Latest Stories
-
Zenith Bank Ghana: A beacon of excellence in the banking sector
28 seconds -
Eric Alagidede quits as General Manager of Nsoatreman FC
53 seconds -
Anytime there’s vigilance, NDC wins – Malik Basintale
13 minutes -
Inaki Williams continues red hot form with assist in Athletic Bilbao’s draw
21 minutes -
NDC’s transformation agenda to focus on agribusiness, industrialization, and economic stability – Mona Quartey
29 minutes -
Current financial year proving challenging for COCOBOD – IMF
35 minutes -
Hindsight: Ogum buys time with #SuperClash win as Ouattara wobbles
36 minutes -
I would have left Ghana if NPP had won the election – Blakk Rasta
38 minutes -
Energy sector is a major source of financial risk; legacy debts hit $2.1bn – IMF
58 minutes -
FC Nordsjaelland strengthens ‘team unity’ with cultural exchange programme in Ghana
1 hour -
Residents of Zomayi share contaminated dam with cattle, appeal for potable water
1 hour -
Automobile association describes prospects of industry as positive
2 hours -
Lighthearted: It bothers you? Say it
2 hours -
T-bills auction: Government records 19.75% over-subscription; interest rates near 30%
2 hours -
Lighthearted: What happened to us?
2 hours