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RUSSELL MARTIN is emerging as a shock contender to lead Leicester back to the Premier League.
Martin, 39, was axed by relegation rivals Southampton but his work in the Championship at Saints caught the Foxes’ eye.
GettyRuud van Nistelrooy is clinging to his job after a disastrous run since succeeding Steve Cooper in November and a decision is set for the end of the season.
Leicester face Newcastle at home tomorrow having won just once in the Prem in 2025.
The Dutchman, 48, is liked by Leicester’s hierarchy but some within the club are already looking at a change.
Sean Dyche is a promotion specialist from his Burnley days and carries an obvious appeal. But Martin has significant support at the King Power.
Foxes were promoted playing a passing game under Enzo Maresca last season and they will look for a similar style and approach.
Martin had his critics during his time at MK Dons, Swansea and Southampton because he refuses to change his ways.
But that may be the attraction to Leicester, who have players who would excel down a level if they played a passing game.
Martin has had other interest and is also being mentioned within the City Group as a coach for one of their clubs around the globe because of the way he plays.
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Commenting on his future at Leicester, Van Nistelrooy said: “It needs to be sorted yesterday. I think it’s very important to be aligned on that with the club.
“We have to find out over the coming weeks because, of course, coming in December and how the winter window went, taking it into the new season and the challenges we face, it’s very important for me to be aligned and what the possibilities are there.
“That alignment has to take place.”
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