Southampton's Martin explains 'talent' Alcaraz's involvement

The 21 year old has started only one of the last seven Championship fixtures, in which Saints have won five. 

Alcaraz, signed last January for over £10million from Racing Club, started the 4-0 FA Cup win over Walsall - registering two assists.

His league start came against Plymouth Argyle on December 29, in which the youngster got on the scoresheet in a 2-1 win. 

Martin backed Alcaraz to find himself back in the starting team more regularly but admitted competition for his role is high.

The boss said: "He is a fantastic young talent with huge potential

Russell Martin labelled Charly Alcaraz a fantastic talent (Image: Stuart Martin)

"He has had some brilliant games with us and some not-so-brilliant but he is a really young player.

"His best position is probably the same as one of our best players, Stuart Armstrong, so it is really difficult.

"He can play as a wide man, as a false nine, and as a number eight as well but is about balance and chemistry when you pick a team.

"People have built up a really good relationship in that midfield, and it is all about balance," Martin continued.

"Charly will continue to be a big player for us but you can be a big player and not start every game, especially as a 20 year old.

"He is still getting to grips with the language but he is improving quickly with the effort he is putting in and that is fantastic.

"It is never a linear thing with young players, they have ups and downs in the season - I know there is a lot of expectation with him.

"We signed him for a lot of money and he did well in half a season in the Premier League in a team that was struggling

The Argentine was a shining light in Southampton's relegation season (Image: Stuart Martin)

"But it is a completely different style of play from what he is used to. He is learning all the time and is happy to. 

"He is a great kid and wants to practice all the time so will be fine. Joe Aribo found himself out of the team but came back in and did brilliantly.

"Charly has been out but he has had an impact in games, got a couple of assists, and scored against Plymouth. 

"I should have brought him on earlier against Norwich and that was my fault but it is easy to say that with hindsight. 

"He has been playing plenty and for a young guy he has been doing well, so he will continue to do so." 

Argentina youth international Alcaraz has made 25 appearances in all competitions this season, recording four goals and three assists.