In contrast to the failed Harry Darling approach, Russell Martin might find it hard to not cherish his Southampton stay where he effortlessly brought a select few of his former players.
While commencing his Rangers tenure, Russell Martin honestly admitted to having the constant responsibility of refining the club's teenage prodigies. Though it looks like an exciting proposition from the surface, even Saints fans will know that working with fresh minds can be hectic as compared to managing elite players.
Comparatively, Rangers fall in the latter category, hence, they are well placed to lure the kind of world-class stars mid-table Premier League clubs can attract. Even in the worst case, falling second best behind a Championship side for a top target is sure to raise eyebrows among their fans.
Sadly, Martin has overseen this embarrassing transfer slip with his preferred centre-back Harry Darling turning him down to continue plying his trade in the second-division. Darling's new employers Norwich City have bettered Rangers Martin advantage which may lead the Scot to reflect upon his St. Mary's days.
Martin and Southampton's bad transfer luck continues
The reason being that Martin convinced two of his entrusted defenders to pack the bags and meet him at Southampton. Agreed, Nathan Wood may have weighed the Premier League factor as well while giving his nod but that wasn't the case with Ryan Manning.
In fact, Manning experienced a taste of reaching within touching distance of the playoffs and may have hoped to rise to the Premier League alongside Swansea. Still, he gave in to Martin's vision and achieved the eventual promotion goal too.
Knowing Darling was out of contract like Manning, Martin must have been enthusiastic all this while to potentially win the fan's trust which Steven Davis recommended him doing.
Nevertheless, the outright favourites can't have their own every time and Martin should also start searching for other alternatives. In this regard, he and Southampton are lying in the same boat and let's hope both parties end the transfer window on a satisfactory note.