SAINTS manager Russell Martin has not spoken with Stuart Armstrong about extending his contract at the club.

Armstrong is one of four Southampton players in the final six months of their contract, alongside Che Adams, Alex McCarthy and Joe Lumley.

The 31 year old has expressed how he is enjoying playing under Martin after a difficult spell under various managers.

Martin played down his role in getting the Scot to sign a new deal and pointed out how his job is to ensure players "feel like they belong".

Asked if Armstrong is happy to remain at Southampton until the end of the season, Martin said: "I think so.

"This month, there will be lots more conversations. I tend to stay away from that stuff. The chats I have with Stu are to check in and see if he’s okay.

"I check to see if he’s enjoying himself, what more he needs from us, if he needs less. I enjoy talking to Stu.

"My job is to make the players feel like they belong, feel like they are part of something to enjoy and to enable them to put the best versions of themselves on the pitch.

"I think Stuey has been amazing for us and from where he was at the very start of the season to where he is now, I'm really proud of him.

"It has taken quite a lot for him to get there after a difficult year or two."

Martin continued: "Unless he comes to me and tells me he’s unhappy with the situation or he wants it to change, then we will carry on with him and us giving each other everything.

"I have a really good relationship with the players and they will be honest when they are feeling certain things. It's the same with Che. We will cross that bridge when we come to it."

A January sale for Adams would see Saints recoup some money and avoid him departing for free in the summer, should he not sign a new deal.

However, it would mean they lose their second-top goalscorer this season at a time when Kamaldeen Sulemana, Sam Edozie and Ross Stewart are injured.

"It depends on which way you look at it," Martin replied when asked if it would be cheaper to keep Adams rather than find a replacement. 

"If someone comes along and offers really good money for Che and you turn that down when he has six months left of his contract that can be quite expensive.

"That’s with the ownership group and with Jason. I can give my opinion on things. It’s also very much down to Che as well.

"I made a mistake taking Che out of the team against Norwich. He was in such a good place. He had scored two in two. It was my fault and I said that to him.

"He played really well when he came on. He’s been great, he looks free, played with good energy, he’s taking shots on from everywhere, and pressing like a beast.

"As long as he gives us that, we will be good."