RUSSELL Martin has said that he expects Sam Edozie will hurt opposition defenders this season after he looked dangerous in Saints' 0-1 defeat against AZ Alkmaar.
The 20 year old saw his minutes limited by Ruben Selles at the tail end of last season but has returned to the starting lineup under the new Saints boss during pre-season.
Edozie, who joined from Manchester City last summer, had the beating of his opposing full-back as he finished off pre-season with a good performance against last season’s Europa Conference League semi-finalists.
Martin has previously spoken about his desire to give young players first-team opportunities as he looks to help produce players for the future.
READ MORE: Martin believes 'dominant' Southampton 'shouldn't have lost' to AZ
Speaking after Saturday's friendly, the former Scotland international pointed out that it’s up to him and his coaching staff to get the most out of the young winger.
He said: "Sam is a good player with a huge amount of potential and talent.
"He’s not played a huge amount of games but he is going to hurt some people and it’s up to us to make sure he does that regularly and consistently.
"Today we saw some stuff that we really liked from everyone but also some stuff that we have to avoid.
"Sam will be one of those players that we go through a lot of detail (with) this week.
"He’s an exciting talent and a great kid. We are excited to see what he is capable of."
Martin arrived at Saints with a reputation for trusting young players with important roles in the first team.
He has continued that trend this summer with Edozie being one of many less experienced players to have benefited from his appointment.
Shea Charles, 19, looks likely to play a key role having recently been signed from Manchester City, where he only made one senior appearance.
Sam Amo-Ameyaw, Jayden Meghoma and Kami Doyle have also featured since they have stepped up to the first-team.
Speaking with the Daily Echo on Saturday Edozie revealed that Southampton’s young contingent are excited to work under the 37 year old.
“As a young player, all you want to do is play as much as you can.
“So if a manager has trust and faith in young players then that’s a manager we are excited to work with.
"He likes to give young players a chance and all the young players are excited and confident.”
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