RUSSELL Martin said he 'wasn't surpsied' by how Saints' youngsters performed as they lost 1-3 to Gillingham in the EFL Cup.

Sam Amo-Ameyaw made his first senior start for Southampton, while fellow former Spurs academy teammate Jayden Meghoma made his competitive first team debut at left back.

Amo-Amyaw completed the most dribbles (4) at Priestfield Stadium as he caused constant danger down the right-hand side.

Kami Doyle came on as a half-time substitute and there was also a late first-team debut for England U17 international Tyler Dibling.

Speaking after his side's disappointing cup upset, Martin said: "It will be great learning from them.

"I was hoping to be pleasantly surprised by some players, but I wasn’t.

"However, I wasn’t surprised by Sam (Amo-Ameyaw) and Jayden (Meghoma).

They were helped by Stuey Armstrong, Che Adams and Joe Aribo – plenty on the pitch that will help us. 

"We have a feeling of what they can be and what they should be in the next couple of years at this football club.

"It’s our job to help them get there. I thought Sam was excellent, but I don’t want to put too much pressure and expectation on him.

"He is going to be a part of our squad all season and he will play plenty of minutes and help us this season I’m sure.

Martin was also quick to praise Shea Charles, who joined from Manchester City's U21 side this summer and was making his first senior start.

The 19 year old had a lot of defensive responsibility laid upon his shoulder as the former Scotland international made 11 changes from the side that beat Sheffield Wednesday on Friday.

“It was a great night for Shea full of learning," Martin added. 

"We will go through some of his clips tomorrow. He’s a really fast learner and he will benefit a huge amount from tonight. I really liked his performance tonight.”