Martin on decision to start McCarthy as Bazunu expected to miss season

The Republic of Ireland international pulled out of Tuesday's 3-0 win over Preston after picking up a concern in the warm-up.

It was the first match Bazunu has missed in the Championship this season, with Alex McCarthy taking his place in the lineup.

Bazunu emerged from the dugout during the match on crutches and wearing a protective boot before Martin confirmed the injury. 

He said: "I don't think I have any more than that really.

Alex McCarthy was called up for his first league appearance of the season (Image: Stuart Martin)

"He's felt something in his Achilles and he'll get a scan tomorrow. I'm sure by the time I speak to you on Friday, we'll know the extent of it.

"But I don't expect to see Gavin any time soon at all. I am devastated for him, but we'll support him in the best possible way because it's the way this club is.

"We have brilliant people here. He'll get all the support he needs and we really hope for good news, but probably fearing and expecting bad news."

McCarthy stepped in for his first appearance since August, when Saints were beaten 3-1 by Gillingham in the first round of the EFL Cup.

Martin added: 'I thought Al was brilliant. He's trained so well. It could have been so easy for him to be deemed as third choice because he's not on the bench.

"He's travelled everywhere, trains like a beast, supports the other goalies, the experience he has. He's played for England and he's a really good goalkeeper.

"We've seen what Joe can do and he's been great in the games that he's come in and done well, but I wanted to have a look at Al because.

"It was just a decision I felt in my gut at that time. Thankfully for us, it's paid off and he only had one shot to deal with all tonight.

"But he did well with everything he needed to do so now we have another selection problem ahead of Saturday."

Backup goalkeeper Joe Lumley was named on the substitute's bench initially, despite McCarthy's eventual promotion to the team. 

Joe Lumley played in the FA Cup matches this season (Image: PA)

Martin explained: "I think I've said to the goalies of the season, I don't really see it the same as any other position on the pitch.

"I think there's this thing in England and maybe in football in general, you need to have a nailed number one or two.

"Gavin's obviously played because he's done well. When he's had a couple of tough moments, we've stuck with him.

"He's always come through and done brilliantly and got better and better. I think it's quite fluid and he has been at our previous clubs as well. 

"But maybe it's just deemed a bit different from the outside. I haven't had a chance to explain to Joe properly the decision.

"I'm sure he'll be very annoyed and frustrated and hurt but we will chat to him and explain to him why.

"Then how he reacts to that is his choice and we'll see for Saturday if he's going to play or not."