TALKSPORT's Jim White claims Saints owner Dragan Solak has messaged him backing former manager Russell Martin at Rangers.

Martin, 39, was sacked as boss of Saints in December with his side bottom of the Premier League after just one win in 16 league matches.

But the former Scotland international has penned a three-year deal at Rangers, and will lead the Glasgow outfit in the Scottish Premiership.

TalkSPORT host White read aloud a message he claims was sent to him by Sport Republic's lead investor Solak following the news. 

"I believe and hope Russell will have great success with Rangers, really happy for him to land such a high-profile job," read White, on behalf of Solak.

Russell Martin has signed a three-year deal at RangersRussell Martin has signed a three-year deal at Rangers (Image: PA)

"It is absolutely the right fit for him and great opportunity for him to develop as a manager," the Serbian is said to have continued. 

"I always considered him to be a smart and intelligent manager with a great career ahead of him and I hope that he proves me right."

Martin oversaw Southampton's promotion from the Championship in his first season at St Mary's, winning the play-off final against Leeds United.

Saints parted ways with Martin after a 5-0 defeat at home to Tottenham Hotspur, despite Martin signing a new contract ahead of the season.

Saints have hired Will Still, 32, to become their manager ahead of the Championship campaign, with Martin's replacement, Ivan Juric, also sacked.