Martin's message to the fans

The 37-year-old has conducted his first interview since being appointed on a three-year deal last week, and stated the crucial role of the Saints fans in helping the team rebuild after relegation.

Enthusiastic to get his teeth into pre-season, Martin wants to create a hard-working, attractive team the supporters can be proud of, up and down the country.

“The first message is we’re so excited to be here, and we’ll give everything we’ve got to give them a team to be proud of, that, wherever we go, they know what to expect from their team," he said.

“Whether we’re playing home or away, whatever competition it is, they have a team that works incredibly hard for each other, is together, they understand what the team and the club means to the supporters.

“That’s our job now: to reconnect everyone, bring everyone together and that will hopefully be through a way of doing things, a way of operating, being really open with everyone, really honest with everyone, and with a style of play on the pitch that everyone is excited about and enjoys.

“We’re excited about the journey we’re about to go on, and we are going to need everyone. The supporters are always the most important people at any football club – they outlast anyone, any player, any member of staff, and it’s our job now to make sure we give them a team to be proud of and we enjoy the next part of the club’s journey after a really tough time.

“Hopefully we’ll all grow together, we’ll enjoy it together, and it’ll be an exciting season.”