Russell Martin says Leicester City must create their own identity as they begin life in League One, insisting the club should be judged on what it achieves from this point rather than on recent successes or disappointments.
The new Leicester manager has taken charge following successive relegations that left the 2021 FA Cup winners rebuilding in the third tier. Martin, who previously guided Southampton to Premier League promotion, is also looking to rebuild his own reputation after a brief spell in charge of Rangers.
Russell Martin sets Leicester City expectations
Martin believes both he and Leicester should be evaluated on their current work rather than their past achievements or setbacks.
He said the club enjoyed an extended period of success before its recent decline but stressed that the current group must find its own path instead of being measured against previous accomplishments.
The Leicester boss also expressed hope that his time at the King Power Stadium will be judged on its own merits rather than on his previous managerial role.
Leicester City rebuild under new leadership
Martin's appointment was the first major decision made after James McCarron became the club's sporting director last season.
Discussing his first impressions, the manager praised the honesty shown by the club's leadership regarding the challenges Leicester have faced. He added that there is now a willingness to move forward and insisted he would not judge events that took place before his arrival.
Martin also said people outside the club may form assumptions but explained that those he has worked with since joining Leicester have made a positive impression.
Leicester City's promotion remains the main objective
Martin confirmed that earning promotion from League One is the club's primary target for the coming season.
He also wants his side to play in a style that supporters understand, believe in, and feel proud of throughout the campaign.
The manager acknowledged that building a squad capable of achieving those goals remains a work in progress after a summer of significant changes.
Leicester City transfer plans focus on attack
Leicester has reduced the size of the squad by parting ways with several experienced players, including Jannik Vestergaard, whose contract was terminated by mutual consent; Harry Winks, who joined Cagliari; and Abdul Fatawu, whose transfer to Ipswich Town generated £20 million.
The club has also focused on player sales to help meet spending regulations, including the departure of 17-year-old Jeremy Monga to Manchester City. Following the release of 10 out-of-contract players, Leicester no longer have a senior striker after Patson Daka and Jordan Ayew left the club.
Conor Chaplin is one of only two signings since relegation, and Martin confirmed Leicester are looking to recruit more attacking players. He said the club ideally wants two or three strikers with different qualities, while any new arrivals must be eager to join and determined to help the team achieve promotion.