Russell Martin says Swansea City's legal action against him could be "personal" and has been ongoing all season.
It emerged over the weekend that Swansea are suing their former manager for breach of contract over his move to Southampton last summer.
National publication The Telegraph reported on Saturday that the Swans are taking Martin to the High Court.
The dispute revolves around compensation due over his move to St Mary's, with Swansea believing they were owed around £2million for losing their head coach to a Premier League outfit, in accordance with a clause in his contract.
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The Saints argue that they made their approach after their relegation was confirmed, meaning they would pay a smaller fee, believed to be around half of the above figure.
Martin was asked about the story by the local press on the south coast after their 3-2 win over Watford on Saturday and admitted he was surprised it had taken this period of time to come to light.
Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin said: “I am surprised the story has taken this long to break.
"They have been suing me for the whole season. I don’t know how much I can say about it but it’s not been a huge distraction.
“I don’t think it’s the people at the club, I think it’s the people that own the club and it’s probably a bit personal."
Martin added: "It’s their prerogative and it is what it is, and it’s not a problem.”
Swansea are understood to have received the lesser fee but are pursuing the higher amount they believe they are owed. Club insiders stressed the hierarchy believe this is the only way of earning the sum they feel they're entitled to.
