MANAGER Russell Martin admitted Taylor Harwood-Bellis played his "worst" Saints game against Stoke City before insisting: "He's been amazing."

Harwood-Bellis failed to close down Tyrese Campbell in the first half to prevent the Stoke forward from scoring the game's only goal.

The England youth international was replaced by Jan Bednarek at half-time and appeared to have a disagreement with Martin on the touchline.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, the Saints boss explained that the defender was withdrawn because he needed a rest.

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He said: "We were losing 1-0 at the time, but the decision was not personal on any of the players that come off.

"Taylor looked really tired. He's played so many games and he is a young guy. That was probably the worst game he's played for us all season.

"But he's been amazing. We had someone on the pitch who looked tired and someone on the bench (Jan Bednarek) who has been incredible.

"Jan has actually been a bit tired himself. He needed a rest so they played 45 minutes each. It wasn't the plan but we have to manage the squad in the best way possible.

"Taylor's been amazing. He's been one of our players of the season and he will play next week. There will be no problem."