UNBELIEVABLE 😱😱 No Excuses! 😱 Russell Martin has just set his standards and revealed how he wants Leicester City to play. This is what he told his players.

Russell Martin wasted no time laying down his expectations as Leicester City’s players returned for the opening day of pre-season, with intensity, discipline and hard work at the heart of his first training session.

The new Foxes boss officially got his first opportunity to work with the squad at Seagrave as preparations for the 2026/27 campaign began.

With several weeks remaining in the transfer window, Martin knows he must quickly establish the standards he expects from every player if Leicester are to mount a serious promotion challenge.

Those present at training described an energetic opening session, with players pushed to work at a relentless tempo from the very beginning. The message was clear: run, run and run—no excuses.

Martin has already spoken publicly about his desire to build strong relationships, create clear standards and produce performances Leicester supporters can be proud of.

His first session reflected exactly that approach, with every player expected to match the intensity demanded by the new manager.

The former Southampton boss has built his reputation on possession-based football, but his teams are equally expected to press aggressively, work tirelessly without the ball and maintain high fitness levels throughout the season. That philosophy was evident from the opening whistle of pre-season.

With several new signings expected to arrive and a number of departures still likely before the transfer window closes, competition for places has already begun.

Every training session will be an opportunity for players to prove they deserve a place in Martin’s plans.

For Leicester supporters, the first day of pre-season offered an early glimpse of what lies ahead. Under Russell Martin, there will be no shortcuts, no excuses and no room for complacency as the Foxes begin their mission to fight their way back to the Championship.