Southampton ace Downes makes 'specific' Martin admission

The 24 year old, managed by Martin for one season at Swansea before making his move to Premier League West Ham, adds he is enjoying his loan at St Mary's. 

Downes has made 15 Championship appearances since signing from the Hammers and has nailed the midfield anchor role as his own.

He has also been filmed in training offering tactical advice to teammates, sharing his experiences working under Martin's principles previously. 

In a new video released by Saints, Downes insists: "I've been with a fair few managers and I enjoy training here, the gaffer is very specific in what he wants. 

Russell Martin managed Flynn Downes at Swansea City before he made a Premier League move

"When you're going out there, you know exactly what you're doing and who you're preparing for. Every manager has a different strategy but I find the gaffer here is very specific.

"We will work on us one day and then work on how we're going to stop the other team one day, and I like that as when it comes to a Saturday, you know exactly what you're doing.

Downes continued: "Some managers can be standoffish but he gets involved, makes everyone feel welcome and part of the team. 

"He's got a bit (when he gets involved in training) but he needs to sort that dodgy calf out. Apart from that, he's alright. 

"He's very passionate about the way he wants to play and I sort of agree with that so that is why I love playing under him." 

Downes, who has moved into Winchester, labels Saints star Adam Armstrong as one of his close pals in a "together" dressing room. 

"I think the group here is so close and it's something that Ryan Fraser has already pointed out, how close the group is," he added. 

"Me and Arma (Adam Armstrong) are really close as he helped me out early doors when I was moving into Winchester and stuff.

Adam Armstrong has scored 12 goals already in the Championship this season

"Everyone's a good guy and it's hard to pick anyone out. It's a good group."

After conversations with the players on their return for pre-season earlier this summer, Martin identified a fracture in the dressing room. 

The boss also made it one of his aims to restore enjoyment and fun to the day-to-day work at Staplewood after years of battling relegation took its toll. 

The signings of players such as Downes and Taylor Harwood-Bellis have been key for leadership, while others such as Ryan Fraser and Mason Holgate add the fun. 

Downes explained: "You have to lead by example in games and in training. Off the pitch, it's little things like keeping your area tidy, turning up on time and cleaning your boots. 

"I like to get amongst it and have a bit of banter with the lads but I leave that to Mason Holgate to crack on with that stuff. 

"He's good to have in the dressing room, a great character and you need to have them guys. Ryan Fraser is a great guy too, and some player."