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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Tom Coleman

Southampton boss Russell Martin writes touching farewell message to Swansea City and reveals 'best day of my son's life'

Russell Martin has posted a lengthy and emotional farewell message to Swansea City and their fans following his move to Southampton.

Having dragged on for the best part of four weeks, Martin's move to St Mary's was finally confirmed earlier this week.

Michael Duff has since been confirmed Martin's successor at SA1, and has already overseen the start of pre-season training at Fairwood ahead of what promises to be a busy summer schedule.

READ MORE: Swansea City news as Barnsley's last-ditch attempt to keep Duff emerges and pundit 'upset' with boss over Allen

But having spent the last two years in the Swans hot-seat, Martin clearly left his mark on the club, and was eager to pay tribute to all those at the Swansea.com Stadium.

In a post on his social media, he wrote: "The past two years have been amongst the most enjoyable, and challenging, years of my life and professional career. My family have loved living in this wonderful city and being a part of this special football club. We will all miss the place and the people that we have gotten to know and who have welcomed us since the day we arrived.

"To the people in the club who have shared the journey with us on a daily basis, the players and the staff. I will be forever grateful and thankful for the way you embraced us, for your unwavering support and the trust you showed in us from the very beginning.

"Watching so many of the players grow both on and off the pitch, young men showing bravery through all the ups and downs fills me with immense pride and leaves me feeling excited for them in their careers as they progress."

Martin was also keen to thank the Jack Army, having given them the glory of consecutive South Wales Derby doubles during his tenure, adding that the last win over Cardiff City was a memory treasured by his own son.

"To the supporters who are always the most important people at any club. Thank you all for the support through thick and thin. I hope we gave you a team to be proud of and that you enjoyed watching.

"We will always have the Double ‘Doube’ which are undoubtedly amongst the best days of my career. My eldest son tells me repeatedly that the last Derby win was ‘the best day of my life by miles Dad!’

"I know I will look back on my time at this club with nothing but love and affection for the people of Swansea and with deep gratitude for the support we were given throughout.

"I am excited to see where the next part of our journey takes us but I wanted to make sure I acknowledge the last two years and the positive impact it’s had for all of us.

“Diolch!

“Russ”

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