Russell Martin, the incoming Saints manager, has issued a classy farewell to his former club Swansea City A.F.C.

The 37-year-old former Scottish international player posted an emotional tribute to the South Wales side on his LinkedIn account on Friday evening.

In it, he said he was 'excited to see where the next part of our journey takes us' but that he would 'look back on my time at this club with nothing but love and affection for the people of Swansea'.

READ MORE: Southampton FC: Russell Martin - a look at the personable young coach

This comes as Swansea City chairman Andy Coleman said the club would "fight for what they are owed" in regards to the compensation package paid by Saints to bring Russell Martin to St Mary's.

Here is his statement in full: "Thank you to everyone associated with Swansea City Football Club.  

"The past two years have been amongst the most enjoyable, and challenging, years of my life and professional career. My family have loved living in this wonderful city and being a part of this special football club. We will all miss the place and the people that we have gotten to know and who have welcomed us since the day we arrived. 

"To the people in the club who have shared the journey with us on a daily basis, the players and the staff. I will be forever grateful and thankful for the way you embraced us, for your unwavering support and the trust you showed in us from the very beginning. 

"Watching so many of the players grow both on and off the pitch, young men showing bravery through all the ups and downs fills me with immense pride and leaves me feeling excited for them in their careers as they progress. 

"To the supporters who are always the most important people at any club. Thank you all  for the support through thick and thin. I hope we gave you a team to be proud of and that you enjoyed watching. 

"We will always have the Double ‘Doube’ which are undoubtedly amongst the best days of my career. My eldest son tells me repeatedly that the last Derby win was ‘the best day of my life by miles Dad!’

"I know I will look back on my time at this club with nothing but love and affection for the people of Swansea and with deep gratitude for the support we were given throughout.

"I am excited to see where the next part of our journey takes us but I wanted to make sure I acknowledge the last two years and the positive impact it’s had for all of us."