Club news: Southampton boss explains his decision to rest key man.
SAINTS boss Russell Martin addressed his team decision for Saturday’s game against Middlesbrough, claiming Ryan Manning’s absence was due to rest and recovery.
Martin’s team suffered their fourth consecutive Championship defeat as Boro came from behind to win 2-1 at Riverside Stadium.
Adam Armstrong scored first, but Riley McGree equalized before halftime, and Jonny Howson’s penalty gave the home team the three points.
Martin made three changes to his starting XI that lost to Ipswich Town on Tuesday night, with Holgate, Jan Bednarek, and Flynn Downes all coming in.
When asked about Holgate, Martin told the Daily Echo: “Ryan hadn’t had a full pre-season and looked a little tired.”
“Mason had trained really well, and Kyle can and is comfortable playing left-back.” That was the end of it. We really just wanted Ryan for the team’s balance (at halftime).”
It was also the first time Shea Charles, Will Smallbone and Downes had started a game together in a midfield three.
Assessing the trio, Martin added: “I liked the midfield. The balance in there with Shea, Flynn and Will. I thought they were great.
“We had a lot of control but didn’t do anything of note in the second half, the last bit when we cut them open just wasn’t there.
“When you haven’t won your last three then it’s that bit of confidence probably but it’s a bit lacking.”
“I think the balance showed. We trust all three to really do their job out of possession. On the whole, they did.
They were brave, they arrived in front of the back four, they fought and they pressed. I like them three. Three young guys and we have a lot to work with there,” he concluded.
Up next, Saints welcome Leeds United – who beat Watford 3-0 at Elland Road this weekend – to St Mary’s on Saturday, September 30 (12:30PM).
