SAINTS defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis has become the first player to break his silence following the sacking of manager Russell Martin.

Saints sacked boss Martin after their wretched Premier League return continued with Sunday’s 5-0 humiliation at home to Tottenham Hotspur.

The 38 year old moved to St Mary’s from Swansea last June and oversaw a top-flight return thanks to a Championship play-off final win against Leeds.

Man City youngster Harwood-Bellis, 22, signed for Saints on loan in August and his move was made permanent due to a promotion clause.

The England international became the first Saints player to address Martin's exit, posting a message of thanks on social media site Instagram.

He said: "Thank you, gaffer. You gave me the opportunity to grow wearing the shirt & I’ll forever hold onto what we did last season. Best of luck with the future!"

Saints have been linked with Sheffield Wednesday's Danny Rohl as a potential replacement, while unnamed foreign coaches are also under consideration.