SAINTS boss Russell Martin was "delighted" with Adam Armstrong's performance in their 4-2 win over Sunderland on Saturday.

The goal was his 18th strike of the season, the second most in the Championship behind Blackburn Rovers Sammie Szmodics (21 goals).

The Newcastle-born forward doubled Saints lead from the spot, smashing the ball down the middle, before celebrating in from of the away fans.

The 27 year old was also involved in Southampton's third and fourth, scored by his former Blackburn teammate Joe Rothwell.

READ MORE: 'Amazing finisher' - Martin hails Rothwell after super-sub brace against Sunderland

Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin said: "Adam was amazing, he's a brilliant player. He's a Geordie so he would have enjoyed that one.

"He played on the left and the right even though number nine is his best position. He is so reliable. He tried to square it for Che for the third goal and Rothwell got on the end of that.

"I'm really delighted with him. We all felt hurt after the first game against them. It was a nice feeling to win and come back from the difficult moment we had in the game. 

"I feel like we deserved it. I don't think anyone can watch the game and say that we didn't deserve to win."

Armstrong has now been involved in 29 goals this season - 18 goals and 11 assists - the joint highest in the top four English divisions alongside Notts County's Macaulay Langstaff.

Southampton are back in action against Middlesborough on Saturday, March  29 after an extended international break.