Martin defends decision to leave out summer Southampton signing again

Martin opted to plug the gap left by the absence of Flynn Downes at Cardiff City with Will Smallbone out of position in the midfield six. 

"We wanted exactly what he brought in the first 70 minutes, progressing the ball so well. We created so many chances," Martin explained.

Saints spent most of the afternoon ahead and should have won comfortably, but succumbed to late pressure and a 2-1 defeat.

Charles, 20, was left on the bench amid a barren run of minutes. The £10million summer signing has made 30 league appearances.

Shea Charles is struggling for game time at Saints in 2024 (Image: PA)

However, only 169 of his minutes have come in 2024 and he has only made two substitute appearances in the last 11 fixtures. 

He was left out of the squad completely for Ipswich, Middlesbrough and Watford matches, before playing 45 minutes against Preston last week. 

Charles was one of only two permanent signings to cost Saints a fee, along with injured striker Ross Stewart. 

However, when asked if his limited involvement is a worry, Martin insisted: "He's had a brilliant first season. It's not about how much you pay.

"We paid £22million or whatever for Kamaldeen (Sulemana). It's not about how much you pay for someone. 

"It's about his pathway and it's his first season in men's football. I'd say it's a big success," Martin reiterated.

"You can see how many games he's played in a team really fighting for promotion to the Premier League.

"He's only played under-21s football before, albeit he's played international for Northern Ireland, but he's had a great season." 

Charles has already earned 15 caps for Northern Ireland and captained Man City's youth teams to numerous titles. 

Downes could be back in contention for Tuesday's trip to Leicester City, meaning Charles is at risk of losing his squad place again.