Exclusive: Southampton set sights on Championship boss to replace Russell Martin

Southampton have shortlisted Blackburn manager John Eustace as they eye potential replacements for Russell Martin, sources have told Football Insider.

Football Insider revealed (September 7) that 'alarm bells' are already ringing for Martin, 38, and there is even the possibility he could be sacked by the end of the month if results don't rapidly improve.

The Southampton board are starting to question Martin's style of play, with high-profile mistakes while playing out from the back costing the team much-needed points.

The South Coast club have lost all four of their opening Premier League games since returning to the English top flight, only above Everton thanks to a superior goal difference.

Eustace, 44, has a growing reputation in the Championship following impressive spells at Birmingham City and now at Blackburn Rovers.

The English manager had Birmingham as high as sixth place in the Championship before being sacked in favour of Wayne Rooney, with the club ultimately relegated to League One at the end of last season.

John Eustace on Southampton Russell Martin replacement shortlist

Blackburn are one of three unbeaten clubs that remain in the Championship, sitting in third with three wins and two draws from their opening five games.

They next face an away trip to Lancashire rivals Preston North End in the 12pm kick-off on Sunday (September 22).

It's an early six-pointer for Southampton on Saturday (September 21) as they face fellow newly promoted side Ipswich at St Mary's.

Following their penalty win over Everton in the League Cup on Tuesday (September 17), Southampton will fancy their chances to pick up their first points of the season.

In other news, Kyle Walker-Peters: Southampton update from top source after new talks.

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