SAINTS manager Russell Martin insisted Ryan Manning's late Ireland call-up was not ideal for the left back or the club.

The 27 year old was not named in interim boss John O'Shea's initial squad but joined up late after recovering from nose surgery.

Upon linking up with Southampton teammates Gavin Bazunu and Will Smallbone, Manning remained as an unused substitute for their friendlies against Belgium and Switzerland.

Speaking on Thursday, Martin voiced his disappointment that Manning was not involved for the Boys in Green in either match.

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He told the Daily Echo: “He had an operation because he broke his nose against Birmingham. The plan was to keep him here to let it settle and keep him fit.

“Then we were informed that they really wanted him to go and play, but he didn’t play a minute. It’s not ideal for Ryan or us, but it’s their prerogative.

“The best for him would have been to train here and recover. If he would have played and got another cap it would have been brilliant for him.”

Manning has made 33 appearances for Southampton this season having joined on a free transfer from Swansea in the summer.