Russell Martin Discusses Player Suspensions, Squad Confidence, and Chelsea’s Enzo Maresca

Southampton manager Russell Martin addressed the media in advance of Wednesday’s Premier League fixture against Chelsea, scheduled for 19:30 GMT. The following are the key points from his press conference: Martin stated he is “hopeful” that striker Paul Onuachu will be fit for the match against the Blues, and confirmed that Jan Bednarek is expected to be in the squad “all being well”. Regarding the suspensions of Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Flynn Downes, and Tyler Dibling, Martin commented: “We are probably without our five most consistent players so we have to tweak and adapt. Am I kicking myself for playing three of our best players and getting a point away at Brighton? Absolutely not.” Martin expressed satisfaction with Downes’ performance in Friday’s 1-1 draw at Brighton, noting: “His frustration of being suspended has overtaken his feeling for scoring. It was one of his best performances for us.” He conveyed his belief that other players are prepared to step in, stating: “Ryan Manning coming in from being not even on the bench and doing really well is an example. We have a big squad but we knew all season we’d need everyone. You can go from being not on the bench to starting and that’s it. We have trust in the players coming in and trust in the shape because they have done it before.” Addressing the challenge posed by Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea, Martin remarked: “He he has done a great job and I am really pleased a club like Chelsea has recognised what he did in the Championship because it was incredible. His players are really starting to click into gear and get into flow.” When questioned about PGMOL following his side’s controversial disallowed goal against the Seagulls, Martin responded: “It’s probably a bit harder than it needs to be. Some stuff gets left on field because they know they have VAR, but then on Friday the process means it doesn’t get corrected by VAR. But I have trust and faith in Howard Webb to hold the right people to account.”