‘What frustrated me’ - Southampton boss Russell Martin discusses Samuel Edozie’s failed move to Rangers

Southampton boss Russell Martin has claimed that Rangers were at fault for the collapse of Samuel Edozie’s move to Ibrox on deadline day and has described the whole ordeal as being ‘unfair’ on the player.

Edozie, who signed for Southampton from Manchester City in 2022, scored six goals in 34 Championship appearances last term to help his side to promotion via the play-offs.

The 21-year-old prospect emerged as a key target for Rangers on the final day of the window, but the deal ultimately failed to materialise as the Gers instead opted to sign midfielder Nedim Bajrami and Dutch defender Neraysho Kasanwirjo.

Martin, who played 15 league games for Rangers in 2018, took a swipe at his former club and told Sun Sport: “What frustrated me was how late it fell through and it wasn't on our end. 

"I think it's a bit unfair to Sam really. It's a bit disappointing but it is what it is. Every club has their prerogative and their priorities in the transfer window.

"I was gutted for Sam because it was too late to then find another opportunity to go and play football.

"He'll get to work like everyone else now. Get his head down, work really hard and try and get himself into the squad and into the team.”

Edozie has been involved in three of Southampton’s four games across all competitions this term but was left out of the squad entirely against Brentford in a 3-1 away defeat last time out on 31 August.

"He wasn't in it today because of the speculation but also because Sam Amo deserves to be in the squad more than he does right now.” Martin said at the time.

"That's my opinion and that won't be everyone's opinion. It definitely won't be Sam Edozie's. But unfortunately, I'm the guy who takes that hope or the opportunity of him playing away.

"It's the hardest bit of the job. So we'll have a chat. We had a couple of messages already and we'll have a chat on Monday.

"He'll be fine. He needs to find a way to get himself back into the group and really impact things."