Southampton will not be affected by any external narrative on their return to the Premier League. Saints have been tipped by many pundits for relegation after they were promoted following victory over Leeds in last season's Championship play-off final. They face a tough opener at Newcastle on Saturday, with Saints, Leicester and Ipswich being bookmakers' early favourites for the drop.
Sky Sports caught up with the manager, captain and returning hero ahead of the curtain-raiser at St James' Park. The manager: Russell Martin Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Given the financial implications had Southampton not come back up at the first time of asking, manager Russell Martin admits failure to gain promotion would have had significant ramifications on the club. "For me, it was very important," the 38-year-old tells Sky Sports .
"For the club, it was huge and it was vital and will determine the next five to 10 years for sure in terms of how the club will look and how we can carry on growing and building. Trending "If we didn't get promoted, it would look very different in terms of how the team would be built. Given the number of staff the club has, there would have been financial implications so in terms of making sure people kept their jobs and those who have been here for a long time, it was a big relief.
" Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Like any previous side promoted via the play-offs, Saints have been hastily preparing f.