A decade ago, in September 2016, Leicester City were gearing up for a Champions League campaign, a testament to the remarkable rise they had achieved under their previous management. Fast forward to the present day, and the Foxes find themselves languishing in 17th place in League One – the lowest rung they have ever occupied since joining the Football League in 1894.
The stark contrast between those two moments highlights just how precipitously the club’s fortunes have slipped. Since taking charge, Russell Martin has overseen a dismal start to the season, securing only a single victory in the opening five fixtures. The most recent humiliation came at the King Power Stadium, where Oxford United thumped Leicester 4‑0 on home soil.
The defeat sparked a chorus of angry chants from the supporters, with many demanding the manager’s dismissal before the morning. Martin, who was hoping to rehabilitate his reputation after a turbulent spell at Southampton and a challenging tenure at Rangers, now faces a fan base that is increasingly impatient and unforgiving. Despite the bleak circumstances, there are voices that still believe Martin possesses the capacity to turn the tide. Former Leicester City assistant manager Michael Appleton expressed cautious optimism on Sky Sports’ The EFL Show.
Appleton acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, noting that Martin is now a seasoned professional who inherited a club with lofty expectations – a club that, not long ago, was competing in the Premier League and even claimed the title. Appleton pointed out that Martin’s record across his recent managerial stops – three league wins in 28 attempts with Southampton, Rangers and Leicester – underscores the challenges he has faced.
Appleton stressed that the early season setbacks – the 4‑0 loss at home, defeats to Plymouth and Burton – have created a “very difficult start” that demands an immediate reversal. He suggested that Martin’s past experiences at larger clubs could become a valuable resource, enabling him to guide his players and staff through adversity and maintain composure within the dressing room.
Appleton also highlighted the psychological impact of suffering heavy defeats on home turf, arguing that the pain is amplified when the supporters are present. Nevertheless, he concluded that Martin appears comfortable with the pressure and possesses the know‑how to navigate it.
Adding another perspective, Reading co‑CEO Joe Jacobson commented on the squad’s lack of experience, which he believes is hampering Leicester’s progress. Jacobson observed that the manager is frequently opting to substitute seasoned players for younger, less tested ones. He warned that these emerging talents will feel the weight of expectation and the charged atmosphere inside the stadium, especially as fans remain wary after a series of disappointing seasons. Jacobson noted that rebuilding trust with a fan base that has become disillusioned takes time, and that Martin’s clear vision for how his team should play may sometimes create friction among supporters.
Jacobson drew a parallel with Martin’s stint at Southampton, recalling a period in September when the Saints lost four consecutive games, only to go on an unbeaten league run that lasted until February. He suggested that if Martin can replicate that pattern of resilience, Leicester might begin to extract better performances from its players.
However, Jacobson also highlighted a broader issue: the growing disconnect between the club’s ownership and its supporters. Recent announcements that Leicester is up for sale have echoed similar turmoil at Reading, where ownership changes have strained fan relations. Jacobson explained that when owners openly discuss selling the club, supporters often interpret it as a lack of commitment, further eroding confidence. Despite these challenges, Jacobson remains hopeful that Leicester can enjoy a successful season if the players receive sufficient training time under Martin’s guidance.
He acknowledged the current anxiety and division among fans, who want to rally behind the team but also desire assurance that everyone is moving in the same direction. Looking ahead, Leicester’s next test arrives with a trip to Edgeley Park to face Stockport County, who currently sit third in League One. The contrast is striking: a decade ago, Stockport were competing in the National League North, but they have since climbed the pyramid and now enter the fixture as favorites. This upcoming match will be a crucial barometer for Martin’s ability to inspire a turnaround.
In summary, Leicester City’s descent to an all‑time low under Russell Martin is undeniable, yet the narrative is not yet closed. The manager’s extensive experience, combined with insights from former colleagues and industry observers, suggests that there remains a pathway to recovery. The club must address its youthful squad’s inexperience, rebuild trust with a skeptical fan base, and navigate the uncertainty surrounding ownership. If Martin can harness his past lessons, instill confidence in his players, and secure a string of positive results – beginning with the challenge at Stockport – Leicester may yet reverse its fortunes and begin the arduous climb back toward the higher echelons of English football.