SAINTS manager Russell Martin and Tino Livramento have both moved to ease concerns after the young defender was substituted at half-time versus AZ Alkmaar.

The 20 year old made only 45 minutes of the 0-1 defeat of the final match of pre-season after taking a knock and being seen limping on the pitch.

Livramento has also been the subject of transfer bids from Champions League Newcastle United but the Magpies have not met the valuation expected by Saints so far.

He could be in line to face Sheffield Wednesday on Friday, August 4, in the Championship season opener and Livramento has reassured supporters he has not picked up a new injury.

READ MORE: Martin believes 'dominant' Southampton 'shouldn't have lost' to AZ 

“Guys I’m fine, it was planned for me to play 45 before the game! I’m not injured and feel great after another good run out,” he posted on social media.

Daily Echo:

Martin had confirmed this prior to Livramento speaking out himself when talking with the Daily Echo at the end of the fixture.

"Yeah, he’s fine but it would have been madness to try and keep him on the pitch. He took a big whack but he rode it well to be fair,” Martin insisted.

“He’s a top, top talent and he’ll be fine after that – it just would have been madness to keep him on the pitch really.”