Russell Martin: Southampton boss eyeing club record on reunion with Swansea

Russell Martin (left) was assisted by Luke Williams (right) during his time as Swansea manager - now they meet as opposition managers as Southampton visit Swansea

Southampton manager Russell Martin is targeting business before pleasure ahead of his return to Swansea.

Saints can break a club record dating back to 1921 by making it 21 games without defeat in all competitions.

Martin returns on Saturday having left to join Saints in the summer and beating the Swans 5-0 before Christmas.

"It just happens to be this game. I am looking forward to going back and seeing a lot of people but I really want to win," he told BBC Radio Solent.

Saints have not tasted defeat since 23 September at Middlesbrough - a 19-match Championship streak which has hauled them up to third, three points behind Ipswich in the second automatic promotion place with 19 games remaining.

Martin said: "If we can make a bit of history it will be great but for us the biggest incentive is to finish the day in second ahead of Ipswich playing on Monday. There is a lot at stake at this stage of the season.

"To make history together would be brilliant and amazing for the guys."

Martin has 'a lot of fondness' for Williams

Martin says he doesn't know what reception to expect from Swansea fans but added: "I was extremely grateful for the two years I had there.

"The reception I get I can't control, but I hope it is one that is similar to the feeling I have for the club - of warmth and gratitude for everything they gave me when I was there.

"They were amazing with me after the game (at St Mary's), especially considering the result, and they were brilliant when I was there. I loved my time there - I have a lot of affection for the club and the people."

The Swans are now led by Martin's former assistant Luke Williams, who was with him at MK Dons and Swansea.

But Martin said there is no room for sentiment despite it being an emotional situation, pitting his wits against someone he has "a lot of fondness for and gratitude towards" and "seeing some people in the background who don't get any plaudits but are amazing people."

"But, ultimately we are on a fantastic run at a club I feel is growing and coming together all the time," he said.

"I want to win."