Russell Martin praised Will Smallbone for how he energised the midfield in Saints’ 1-2 win at Sheffield Wednesday on Friday night.

The Irish international completed 142 passes, the most of any player on the field, as he started in midfield alongside James Ward-Prowse.

His starring performance came as Southampton dominated possession in their opening fixture of the Championship season.

Martin's side finished the game with 80 per cent possession and 930 passes completed.

READ MORE: Southampton's Stephens will be captain if Ward-Prowse is not playing

The Saints boss has previously likened Smallbone to a new signing and continued to compliment the academy graduate for his role at Hillsborough.

“Will put the rhythm in the team," Martin noted after recording his first competitive win as Saints boss. 

"He was amazingly clean technically and he helped out a lot defensively, he made a lot of interceptions today.

"He’s a really outstanding footballer and his performances so far have justified why I wanted to sign him at Swansea - so we must have got one right.

“He will play in different roles for us as well. He really is a gifted footballer with some good Championship experience after last season.

“I hope he enjoyed that tonight because I really enjoyed watching him."

Smallbone returned to Saints this summer having spent last season on loan in the Championship with Stoke City.

The Basingstoke-born midfielder featured 46 times across all competitions during his single campaign in the Potteries.