Southampton manager Russell Martin has reaffirmed his faith in Lesley Ugochukwu, insisting the Chelsea loanee remains a key part of his plans despite limited playing time this season.
Softfootball understands that speculation had emerged over the French midfielder’s future after he was left out of Southampton’s recent matchday squad, prompting suggestions he could return to Chelsea during the January transfer window.
However, Martin has dismissed those concerns, making it clear that Ugochukwu still has an important role to play for the Saints.
The Southampton boss explained that the midfielder’s absence against Brighton & Hove Albion was based on tactical considerations rather than any long-term issue.
Martin stressed that team selection will continue to depend on the demands of each fixture and insisted every player will be assessed on a game-by-game basis.
“I think if it’s not Chelsea, he’s probably back in the squad,” Martin told the Daily Echo.
“He wasn’t in the squad against Brighton and he knows the reason why.
“Every game is different, so it doesn’t mean he’s not going to be in the squad moving forward. We will assess the situation and just have to assess it game to game.”
Ugochukwu joined Southampton on loan from Chelsea in search of regular first-team football, but competition for places has limited his opportunities in recent weeks.
Despite that, Martin’s comments suggest the 20-year-old remains firmly in his plans as Southampton continue their battle in the Premier League, with the manager confident the young midfielder will have an important role to play as the season progresses.
