I have been a lifelong supporter of Southampton FC for 73 years.

I first watched them in the third division south at the Dell and also attended many reserve games.

I saw Mick Channon, Martin Chivers and Terry Paine play their very early games for Saints. I was also behind the goal at the Milton Road end when we led Man United 2-0 at half time only to lose 3-2 in the FA Cup.

My total support for Saints has never wavered and I have always taken great satisfaction from supporters of other clubs that have enjoyed the Southampton way of playing and the entertainment that they have given.

It saddens me now that we are trying to play a brand of football that we are just not good enough for.

We possess a squad of very talented players. (Stevens and Manning apart) and can play in the manner that Russell Martin dictates against less talented sides but immediately we come across equally talented opposition we fail dismally.

We need a manager that can utilise the talents that we have and play in a far more traditional fashion more suited to the quality of the players we possess.

We have an excellent squad that can be promoted from the Championship, although of course we would struggle in the Premiership without additional recruitment.

I totally understand and appreciate Russell Martin aspirations and ideals, but I regret they are not suited to the Southampton squad that he is currently managing.

Chris Davis
Southampton