Southampton outcast delivers verdict on Russell Martin after St Mary's exit

Former Southampton defender Romain Perraud has no hard feelings towards old boss Russell Martin following his exit from St Mary's this summer.

The 26-year-old Frenchman has signed for Spanish side Real Betis after spending 2023/24 on loan at boyhood club Nice in his homeland.

Perraud made 60 appearances for Saints in total, but was hampered by injuries and failed to establish himself in the side following Martin's arrival.

He was sent out on loan having had it made clear he was not part of the club's plans, and that temporary exit was confirmed when Perraud signed for Betis permanently last month.

The move came as Martin continues to reshape his squad ahead of Saints' return to the Premier League for 2024/25.

What has Romain Perraud said about Southampton exit?

Perraud, who played eight times for France at Under-21 level, began his career with Nice before moving to then-newly promoted Brest in 2019, where he made 61 appearances, scoring three goals.

It was there he caught the eye of former Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl, who made him the club's first signing of that season in July 2021.

Speaking on his exit, Perraud told The Athletic : "I had no relationship with the manager (Martin). I was not part of the promotion [last season]. I didn't want to be here and try to benefit from the promotion.

"My time was finished and I needed to write a new book. I was at Southampton for two years and at the end of my second season, I fractured my foot against Bournemouth.

"I came back to training at the end of July and then was trying to come back into the squad. A new manager was here and he brought in a new full-back from Swansea. I thought it was a signal that the club didn't want me and it was time to change direction."

Reflecting on the chance to join Betis, Perraud said he would leave Saints with only positive feelings.

"For the club, it was important to let me go for a good price. Personally, it was a good feeling because I left in a good way," he added.

"It was the best option possible. I only think good things about Southampton because my time there was unbelievable.

"It was a kind and happy relationship, so I followed the team throughout last season, watching their style, how they played and, of course, that match at Wembley (in the playoff final against Leeds).

"I could leave knowing Southampton was back where it belonged."