FORMER Premier League goalkeeper Shay Given feels Russell Martin was harshly treated by Saints fans during his final game.

Martin was sacked by Southampton on Sunday evening following a 5-0 loss to Spurs at St Mary's.

The defeat leaves Saints bottom of the Premier League table, nine points adrift of safety with a minus 25 goal difference. 

Fans cycled through various chants directed towards the 38 year old as they voiced their frustration towards Martin, his style of play and the on-field product.

In the second half, the Northam Wall chanted for Martin to give them a wave before booing his thumbs up gesture.

Near full-time, a 'Get out of our club' banner was picked up by the cameras. Those fans got their wish an hour after full-time.

Speaking on Match of the Day, Given insisted Martin was poorly treated by fans who were singing his name a few months ago.

He said: “It’s a little harsh. You see the banner ‘Russell Martin out’ from the home fans. Not that long ago, he was getting them promoted.

"He was a hero. The Premier League is a big step up from the Championship. You can tell because they are sitting rock bottom of the Premier League after a 5-0 defeat."

Southampton are now searching for a successor to Martin. Under-21s boss Simon Rusk has been placed in charge on an interim basis.

Former Denmark manager Kasper Hjulmand, Sheffield Wednesday's Danny Rohl and West Brom's Carlos Corberan have been linked with the vacant role.