Russell Martin confirmed as new Southampton manager

Russell Martin has left his role at Swansea City to take over as head coach at Southampton.

The former Scotland international verbally agreed to take over at St Mary's last month, while the clubs remained in discussions over compensation.

Those talks have concluded with Martin signing a three-year contract.

"It's a privilege to accept this opportunity at Southampton, a club with such a long and rich history," he said.

"My aim is to get this club back where it belongs - in the top flight of English football. I am ready for this challenge and will give everything to achieve this aim and to give the supporters a team that makes them proud. I'm thrilled to be here and cannot wait for the work to begin."

Leicester were also interested in the 37-year-old but Southampton moved quickly following their relegation from the Premier League.

Several of his backroom staff, including assistant Mat Gil, are expected to join Martin.

Southampton and Swansea disagreed over the amount of compensation which should be paid, which has seen the move dragged out.

They had been haggling over £700,000 with Martin's release clause for Championship clubs and Premier League sides different.

The Saints felt they should pay the smaller amount, around £1.25m, after their relegation from the top flight while the Swans were believed to be holding out for £2m.

Martin guided Swansea to 10th in the Championship last season despite having a bottom-four budget and the youngest squad in the division.

He has been praised for his style and Southampton will be hoping the ex-Norwich defender can guide them back to the Premier League at the first attempt.

They finished bottom after a disastrous season which has seen them use three managers.

Nathan Jones replaced Ralph Hasenhuttl