Martin happy with home FA Cup draw but 'expecting stick' from Walsall

The boss signed for League One Walsall as a player-coach in October 2018 but mutually agreed the termination of his deal just eight weeks later.

Under manager Dean Keates, the side were fifth in the division after 12 matches when Martin joined but they won two in 15 to slip to 16th by the time he departed.

Boss Keates remained a fan of Martin, who cited family reasons as the key factor behind his exit and instead joined MK Dons later in January 2019. 

Walsall now visit Martin's Saints in the FA Cup third round with their former player's side unbeaten in 18 matches in league competition. 

Previewing the contest following the draw, Martin told the Daily Echo: "A home draw is great.

Russell Martin went on to become manager of next club MK Dons later that year (Image: PA)

"As it’s Walsall I am expecting a lot of stick for the eight weeks I spent there, that didn’t work out for both parties.

"But a home draw is what you want after a busy period in particular so we will have to see." 

The spell at Walsall's Bescot Stadium was the beginning of Martin's coaching career, where he has since managed MK Dons, Swansea City and Saints.

Martin visited the side he captained as a player earlier this week, Norwich City, and will take on Swansea again later this month. 

At the time of his Walsall exit, Keates said: “Russ has been a fantastic pro for us since he has been here, both on and off the pitch.

“Of course, we are disappointed to see him leave but the travelling is affecting him and he is at the point now where he needs to put his family first and do what is best for them.

“I’d like to thank Russ for his efforts during his time here and I wish him all the best for whatever the next step in his career is.”

Saints are looking to avoid a third consecutive defeat to League Two opposition after cup eliminations at the hands of Grimsby Town and Gillingham.