MANAGER Russell Martin hailed Joe Lumley's "amazing" debut performance after Saints progressed in the FA Cup with a 4-0 win over Walsall.

Lumley, 28, made his first appearance for Southampton against the League Two side having joined on a free transfer this summer.

The former QPR and Reading keeper was rarely tested by Walsall but had to remain concentrated on the ball.

Martin complimented Lumley's ability with the ball at his feet, telling the Daily Echo: "He was amazing.

"His footwork is why Dean Thornton was so keen on bringing him here. Joe hasn’t had a chance to show what he can do because he hasn’t played for teams with that style.

“If you look at Jason Steele at Brighton, nobody would have thought he could do what he does, but he is incredible.

"Then (Roberto) De Zerbi turns up and he is number one because of what he can do with the ball at his feet."

He continued: “It’s about having a manager who wants you to do that and Joe has that. I thought he showed so much composure.

"We scored the fourth goal from an amazing bit of play between him, Taylor (Harwood-Bellis) and Jack (Stephens).

“He was aggressive off his line and he is a great character. He is a brilliant teammate. He is vocal.

"He cares and he wants to win. He is aggressive in the right way. He deserved to play today and I’m pleased for him.”