SAINTS manager Russell Martin backs Charly Alcaraz to have "plenty of days" as he explained his decision to hook the Argentine at Watford. 

The boss substituted Alcaraz, 21, at half-time of the eventual 1-1 draw at Vicarage Road on Saturday, with Ryan Fraser coming on in his place.

It was the Scottish super sub whose cross led to what looked like it would be the winner, scored by Che Adams, before an added time Rhys Healey equaliser. 

Alcaraz had struggled to keep control of the ball during the first 45 minutes, on four occasions putting astray a simple pass. 

The manager backs the youngster but confirms it was a tactical decision rather than an injury concern.

He said: "He wasn't quite at the races on Saturday, he turned the ball over so many times - but he has been fantastic.

"We needed a change to the shape so it was a tough call. Joe Aribo was having a brilliant game, Stuart Armstrong was influential in a lot of ways.

"We didn't want to bring off Adam Armstrong or Che Adams as we wanted to be aggressive so unfortunately for him, it was Carlos."

Martin continued: "It wasn't his day but he will have plenty of days where it is his, Saturday wasn't quite one of them." 

Alcaraz has played 60 per cent of minutes in the Championship this season, only missing games versus Plymouth Argyle, Middlesbrough and Huddersfield Town. 

He could return to the team as Saints visit Coventry City on Wednesday evening, while Blackburn Rovers travel to St Mary's on Saturday.