As the English Premier League drew to a close this season, so did Southamptons decade-long stay in Englands top flight.
Over the five years, the side have experienced a steady decline, from once participating in the UEFA Europa League to consistently finding themselves in the relegation battle.
In contrast, Russell Martins trajectory as a coach over the last five years has risen exponentially, with the former Premier League player excelling at MK Dons and, most recently, Swansea.
On and off the training ground, Martin has managed to instil belief in his players and the fans of both his previous clubs through possession-based football and an evident passion for the game.
This tactical analysis will provide an analysis of Southamptons tactics in possession, highlight the side’s key weaknesses in possession, and explain how Russell Martin coaching style can improve this aspect of the side.
Southampton struggles in progression
Southamptons most recent Premier League campaign saw them finish with just 36 goals, the third-lowest total in the league.
This figure is not a result of poor finishing, as the side only underperformed their expected goals by three goals, which would still rank them among the bottom three teams in the league.
This suggests that the side struggled to create chances over the last season, which is also reflected in the fact that they managed only 20.08 penalty area entries per game, the lowest in the league.
Before comprehensively analysing the reason why Southampton struggled to create chances in the final third, their build-up play in the first two-thirds must be assessed.
Southampton Tactics in build-up
In their own third, Southampton build up with a back four, with their full-backs advancing slightly and their double pivot of James Ward-Prowse and Roméo Lavia.
An example of this is shown in the image below.
Southampton’s centre-backs from these positions will look to pass to either Ward-Prowse or Lavia.
Still, due to the midfielders often facing aggressive opposition pressure, they can only pass back to their defenders.
As a result, most of South
