Russell Martin has a tough job ahead of him in Leicestershire, one fraught with immediate skepticism from the club's passionate Blue Army. From what has been observed across digital channels and through direct dialogue with the Leicester City faithful, the new manager was not the primary choice for a significant portion of the fan base, however.
​Martin's tactical methodology and application have suffered a tangible battering both on and off the pitch in recent years. These concerns originated at his former clubs, with Southampton suffering through a difficult campaign in the Premier League; Rangers also struggled to find consistency in Scotland under his previous tenure.
There remains a plethora of monumental problems on Filbert Way for the 40-year-old to understand, assess, address and ultimately resolve. Navigating the current financial instability at City will be a stern test, as such a task would challenge even the most experienced of managers, let alone a tactician with a polarising track record.
If Martin has been forewarned of the internal dynamics, he may not yet grasp their gravity: having already accepted the appointment while inheriting a boardroom structure viewed by some as deficient. Furthermore, LCFC's chief football officer and chairman have garnered reputations for a ruthless and questionable approach, adding another layer of complexity to his start.
​Beyond these administrative hurdles, the former Swansea City and MK Dons boss must oversee a significant exodus of both key talent and peripheral squad members. He is tasked with the arduous duty of reassembling a competitive squad capable of challenging for honours, all while attempting to build a winning mentality and rapport with a frustrated fanbase.
Russell Martin optimism for Leicester City?
​Despite this daunting list of objectives, Martin has received unexpected encouragement from an ex-international with a legendary moniker. Pele, the former Premier League centre back who represented Southampton, West Bromwich Albion and Milton Keynes, remains a firm supporter of the City head coach.
Describing Martin as a great person, the 48-year-old former defender, who was born in Portugal but represented Cape Verde, believes his former opponent is equipped for the challenge. While the Foxes faithful remain wary, they might take partial solace in Pele's assertion that the new boss will succeed. Adding that the Foxes deserves a loftier standing in the game.
"I do believe that he can take Leicester City straight back up. I really enjoyed his work at Southampton . He's a great person. I remember I played against him too. I believe that they will do well at Leicester because Leicester are another big club who deserve to be in a higher position than they actually are."Pele via Boyle Sports
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