SAINTS manager Russell Martin denied knowledge of Mason Holgate travelling to Sheffield to complete a move elsewhere last week.

PA News reported that Sheffield United’s loan swoop for the 27 year old had collapsed after Everton’s last-minute demand for a bigger fee.

United agreed to cover a portion of his wages but Everton wanted a late payment as the Blades are Premier League relegation rivals.

The report on Friday added that it saw the deal fall through – despite Holgate travelling to Yorkshire for a medical. 

However, Martin refused to acknowledge such a fact and confirmed Holgate was present with Saints on the day the news was reported.

Speaking after Southampton's win at Swansea City, Martin told the Daily Echo: "Yesterday (on Friday)? No, he was training with us.

Daily Echo: Saints manager Russell Martin was victorious 3-1 on his return to former side Swansea CitySaints manager Russell Martin was victorious 3-1 on his return to former side Swansea City (Image: PA)

"Other than that, I don't know. He trained with us so that is all the clarity you need.

"If he got to the hotel with us and managed to find his way his way to Sheffield and back in time he has done very well. 

"No. He was here with us, he was in the squad. He is probably pretty annoyed he has not played as much as he has.

"But he is a great character, really good with the group, vocal in the right way, and has a lot of fun.

"There is a week or whatever there is left of silly season. We will see where he is after that." 

Holgate started the 4-0 win over Walsall in the FA Cup third round this month, having won man of the match on his last previous appearance.

The Toffees defender could return to the starting lineup to face Watford in the fourth round this Sunday if he remains a Saints player.