Saints open EFL season with Sheffield Wednesday trip

New manager Russell Martin is aiming for an instant return to the Premier League

Published 22nd Jun 2023
Last updated 22nd Jun 2023

Southampton's attempt to return to the Premier League at the first attempt will begin with an away game against Sheffield Wednesday.

Last season's bottom finish club in the Premier League will also open the 2023/24 Championship season in the leagues opening fixture on Friday 4th August.

New manager Russell Martin, who joined on Wednesday (21st), faces his former club Swansea for the first time on Boxing Day, returning to the Swansea.com Stadium.

Norwich City will be the first side to visit St. Marys, with the season concluding with a trip to fellow relegated side Leeds United.

Instant Premier League return the aim

New Southampton manager Russell Martin says his aim is to get Southampton 'back where they belong' in the Premier League.

The former Scotland international joins on a three-year deal after leaving Swansea.

Martin verbally agreed to take over at St Mary's last month, while the clubs remained in discussions over compensation.

"It's a privilege to accept this opportunity at Southampton, a club with such a long and rich history," he said.

"I am ready for this challenge and will give everything to achieve this aim and to give the supporters a team that makes them proud.

"I'm thrilled to be here and cannot wait for the work to begin."

Leicester were also interested in the 37-year-old but Southampton moved quickly following their relegation from the Premier League.

Several of his backroom staff, including assistant Mat Gil, are expected to join Martin.

Southampton and Swansea disagreed over the amount of compensation which should be paid, which has seen the move dragged out.

They had been haggling over £700,000 with Martin's release clause for Championship clubs and Premier League sides different.

The Saints felt they should pay the smaller amount, around £1.25million, after their relegation from the top flight while the Swans were believed to be holding out for £2million.

Martin guided Swansea to 10th in the Championship last season despite having a bottom-four budget and the youngest squad in the division.

He has been praised for his style and Southampton will be hoping the ex-Norwich defender can guide them back to the Premier League at the first attempt.

They finished bottom after a disastrous season which has seen them use three managers.

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