SAINTS manager Russell Martin explained his team selection to take on Middlesbrough, insisting Ryan Manning’s omission was down to rest and recovery.

Martin’s side slipped to a fourth successive Championship defeat as Boro came from a goal behind to win 2-1 at Riverside Stadium.

Adam Armstrong opened the scoring but Riley McGree levelled before half-time and Jonny Howson’s penalty saw the home team take all three points.

Martin made three changes to his starting XI that were beaten by Ipswich Town on Tuesday night, including Holgate, Jan Bednarek Flynn Downes entering the team.

Asked about the Holgate decision, Martin told the Daily Echo: “Ryan didn’t have a full pre-season and looked a little bit tired.

“Mason had trained really well and Kyle can play left-back and is comfortable there. That was that. We just wanted Ryan for the balance of the team (at half-time) really.”

It was also the first time Shea Charles, Will Smallbone and Downes had started a game together in a midfield three.

Assessing the trio, Martin added: “I liked the midfield. The balance in there with Shea, Flynn and Will. I thought they were great.

“We had a lot of control but didn’t do anything of note in the second half, the last bit when we cut them open just wasn’t there.

“When you haven’t won your last three then it’s that bit of confidence probably but it’s a bit lacking.”

“I think the balance showed. We trust all three to really do their job out of possession. On the whole, they did.

They were brave, they arrived in front of the back four, they fought and they pressed. I like them three. Three young guys and we have a lot to work with there,” he concluded.

Up next, Saints welcome Leeds United - who beat Watford 3-0 at Elland Road this weekend - to St Mary's on Saturday, September 30 (12:30PM).