SAINTS manager Russell Martin has voiced his support for Saints Women ahead of their clash against Arsenal tonight.

Marieanne Spacey-Cale's side will face the Gunners, who sit second in the Women's Super League, at St Mary's this evening in front of what is expected to be a record attendance.

Martin and the rest of the men's coaching staff will be amongst those in attendance for what he hopes is a "special" occasion for the club.

“Marieanne is a brilliant person, I really enjoy talking about football with her," he told the Daily Echo. "I’ve watched a fair few of their games and we will be there for the Arsenal game.

Daily Echo:

“We are hoping to get a record crowd for the game - I really hope we can. We will all be there as first-team staff and hopefully a few of the players will be there as well.

“For Marieanne it will be a special occasion being an Arsenal legend herself. I’m sure she will be desperate to put in a good account of herself and desperate to win."

Spacey-Cale has admitted that facing Arsenal will help her assess where her Saints side are as they look to gain promotion to the WSL this season.

READ MORE: Facing Arsenal is a 'no-lose situation' for Saints says Spacey-Cale

“The momentum and growth they’ve had in a short space of time is brilliant," Martin continued. "I have a daughter who plays football and so does Gilly.

Daily Echo:

“I went back to my school recently and every age group has a girl’s football team - I don’t think there was a girl’s football team at all when I was there.

“The amount of growth is incredible. The women’s team are a big part of this club. They are here every day and we interact with them on a daily basis.

“It’s really exciting for them, we will be there and hopefully it will be a positive night for everyone.”