SAINTS manager Russell Martin revealed Kamaldeen Sulemana will be in the squad to face Leicester City and insists the winger’s talent makes him “laugh” in training.

Kamaldeen has not played for Saints since scoring a double in the 4-4 draw with Liverpool on the final day of the Premier League season.

The Ghanaian international was the subject of transfer speculation right up to transfer deadline day and also suffered a lengthy injury over the summer.

Although he is not expected to be ready for a full 90 minutes, Kamaldeen could make his first appearance for boss Martin as the Championship returns on Friday evening.

Speaking ahead of the match, Martin said: “Kamaldeen was one of the players who probably thought he would end up in the Premier League or a top league somewhere because of all the interest in him.

“No club came with the money needed to release Kamaldeen from here, and with all that and an injury to get from it brings difficulty for a young man.

“He dealt with it really well, any frustration he has about still – which he probably does, there’s probably a few that were frustrated by the window and information they were given by people outside of the club.”

Martin added: “If he has been frustrated then he’s used it well because he’s been amazing. He’s a seriously good player and now it’s about getting him fit enough to really impact games.

“We want to keep him fit, I love watching him, he’s got so much talent. An incredible amount of talent.

“Some of the stuff he does to other players makes me laugh. Some of the players roll their eyes in disbelief at some of the stuff he does.

“We have to make sure he comes onto the pitch in a place where we can trust him, he trusts himself and he can trust us and that belief.

“We’re getting close to that and he will be in the squad tomorrow which is positive for us, so I’m looking forward to seeing him on the pitch when he gets on there.”

Kamaldeen became Southampton's club-record signing when he joined from French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennes on deadline day in January. 

The 21 year old, who has 18 caps for his country, making 18 appearances for Saints last season and provided one assist to add to his two goals.