Many Leicester City supporters were not overly keen on the appointment of Russell Martin. Of course, nothing is a secret in football anymore; the Blue Army have been aware of their executives' slightly bewildering admiration of the former Scotland international baller for at least a year.
Nonetheless, the LCFC support are collectively unconvinced by Martin's methods. He looked particularly poor in the Premier League with Southampton; the Rangers era was arguably worse for some.
The 40-year-old also carries himself with what could be described as an annoying and misplaced confidence for somebody who must rebuild a career, along with a significant football team! Yet this writer has decided to compartmentalise in this instance: anyone deserves a chance - before those in yours truly's position pile in when it all goes wrong!
But how did other journalists covering Martin at his old sides describe him? Essentially, it is a mixed bag but one that reflects what has already been established regarding his rigid adherence to a specific possession-based philosophy regardless of personnel or, peculiarly, opposition.
Negative and concerning elements of Leicester City boss Russell Martin reported by journalists
Scott Burns, whilst documenting Martin’s testing tenure at Rangers, frequently highlighted the disconnect between his idealistic tactical demands and the harsh realities of vulnerability and results, suggesting a stubborn refusal to adapt when pressure mounted.
Tom Coleman, observing his time at Swansea City, often pointed towards a similar inflexibility where the aesthetic of the play took precedence over defensive stability and offensive gusto. Ultimately leading to periods of frustrating stagnation.
"Swansea reporter Tom Coleman recalls thrilling football but a side that struggled to grind results"OneFootball
​Adam Blackmore, who followed the Southampton journey closely, echoed these anxieties by noting that Martin's relentless insistence on playing out from the back in the EPL left the Saints dangerously exposed against superior opposition. Though he states that the Foxes revolution may suit him.
"Blackmore’s key criticism is Martin’s reluctance to tweak when faced with low blocks."
While the journalistic consensus acknowledges a clarity of vision, these reputable observers repeatedly flagged the concerning lack of pragmatic variation. For a club of LCFC's stature, this represents a significant and potentially damaging gamble.
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