FORWARD Adam Armstrong insists his focus lies with promotion - not putting "pressure" on himself to win the Championship golden boot.

The 26 year old has scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in 28 league matches so far this campaign. 

He was the first to hit 10 of both in England's top four leagues and the first Saint to reach 25+ contributions in a season since Rickie Lambert.

Only Blackburn Rovers forward Sammie Szmodics (16) and Plymouth Argyle's Morgan Whittaker (15) have netted more than Armstrong.

However, Southampton's number nine was keen to shift focus from personal accolades when speaking to Sky Bet. 

Armstrong, who managed 28 goals and was beaten only by Ivan Toney in his last Championship season, said: “If it happens, it happens.

Daily Echo: Adam Armstrong is repaying the £15million spent on him in August 2021Adam Armstrong is repaying the £15million spent on him in August 2021 (Image: PA)

"The way that I’ve been playing lately, chipping in with goals and assists, it’s been nice doing well individually.

"But the main thing is the team, we’ve got one focus and that’s to get promoted and get the team back into the Premier League.  

"I never set myself goal targets, you put too much pressure on yourself if you say a number and get nowhere near it – I take it game by game, as cliche as it is.” 

The former Blackburn man continued: “Sammie Szmodics has been incredible. 

"It helps when everyone is pushing each other, you always see people and teams around you who are trying to be the best they can be, and he’s had a flying start.

"I keep an eye out on their results because I used to play there and still have friends there, so it’s something that I’m enjoying to watch – he’s flying.” 

Armstrong will be satisfied with his season if Saints complete their ambition of promotion back to the Premier League at the first attempt.

“We’re taking it game by game but trying to work every day to push for that top two, it’s something we want to achieve as a club," he explained.

"To get back to the Premier League would be incredible, especially after getting relegated.

"That was probably the worst feeling and the worst pain you can have as a footballer – but if we can get promoted it would certainly top that.”