Martin expecting 'brilliant atmosphere' at St Mary's against Forest

Southampton players will arrive at St Mary's at 12:45 - and the club have urged supporters not to bring any pyro.

Saints are encouraging supporters to be in their seats by 2.45pm in order to give the team a hero's welcome with a special display for their first home game of the season.

As the players walk out to a sold-out crowd, fans are being asked to hold up the card on their seat to create a special display.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin said: "I hope we see the same excitement as we got for the West Brom game and so many games last season.

"I just hope they turn up feeling proud of the team that is representing them and that the team has given them everything.

Russell Martin ahead of facing Millwall in pre-season (Image: PA)

"I think that's all we can ever ask for. They give us everything they've got. We give them everything we've got. If we do that, we have a chance to enjoy lots of good moments together."

Today's fixture is the first time the new safe-standing Northam End will be in full voice after the club revamped the stadium this summer.

New fan zones are available for supporters to lap up the pre-match atmosphere upon the return of Premier League football at St Mary's.

"I think it will add a lot to us," Martin added when asked about the impact the Northam Wall can have this season. 

"Just having that whole stand behind the goal, I think it will give us a lot. It will make a big difference to the atmosphere. I think it's a great idea.

Russell Martin expects Forest to attack with freedom (Image: Stuart Martin)

"I think the players will appreciate it and the fans will enjoy it. My son has pestered me about a season ticket in there.

"He's not going to go there yet, maybe in another few months we'll see. I think it will be great.

"I grew up in Brighton watching the Albion at the Goldstone trying to get on the news after games when they scored a goal in that end.

"Hopefully, we are there to create some more memories and moments for the people standing there and the whole crowd.

"I've got no doubt it will be a brilliant atmosphere, but we have to bring the right energy, aggression, identity and courage to the team for them to really bounce off."