Leicester City has appointed Russell Martin as their new manager on a three-year contract. Martin, who has been out of football since his sacking at Rangers in October, will be tasked with guiding the former Premier League champions to promotion from League One this term. The 40-year-old former Scotland international led Southampton to promotion from the Championship via the play-offs in 2023-24 but was dismissed by the club in December the following campaign after 13 defeats in 16 league games. Leicester announced his appointment on Monday, making him the third manager they have had in the last 12 months after Marti Cifuentes and Gary Rowett. Russell Martin said he is delighted to be at the club and excited to begin working with the players and staff. Jon Rudkin, Leicester chief football officer, said the appointment of Martin comes after a thorough process and that he reflects the qualities that are important for the club. Martin will have to overcome the challenges of successive relegations and a six-point deduction in February for breaching the EFL's profit and sustainability rules. Leicester are back in the third tier of English football for the first time since 2008-09. The club's fans will be hoping that Martin can turn things around and lead the team to promotion. Martin's immediate focus is on the team, building strong relationships, setting clear standards, and creating performances that Leicester City supporters can connect with and be proud of. The new manager has a tough task ahead of him but is looking forward to getting to know the club, the city, and the supporters.