Southampton manager Russell Martin has addressed the spying controversy surrounding his team’s Championship playoff final berth, stating that he will provide a full explanation at the appropriate time but is currently unable to comment further.
Speaking after Southampton’s dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Middlesbrough in the second leg of their playoff semi-final on May 13, Martin faced questions about potential sanctions from the English Football League, including the possibility of being disqualified from the promotion race. The aggregate 2-1 win sets up a final showdown against Hull City at Wembley on May 23, with the winner securing the final Premier League promotion spot for next season. In the interview with Sky Sports, Martin said: “The investigation is ongoing, and the club has already released a statement. I cannot add anything more right now. Believe me, when the time is right, I will explain everything—but now is not that time.” He described the atmosphere in the tunnel as “strange and unusually quiet” during the match, adding that he hopes the matter is resolved quickly so the team can focus on preparing for the final. When asked about Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick’s accusation of cheating, Martin responded diplomatically: “Everyone is entitled to their opinion. He has expressed his view, and I will not comment on it.”
