Why Russell Martin made five changes after 'fight' comment

The boss admitted on Tuesday evening, after the defeat to Leicester City, that he would pick a team of players willing to "fight for their teammates" 

Martin made five changes for the 1-0 defeat to Stoke as Sekou Mara, Sam Edozie, Ryan Fraser, Jack Stephens and Will Smallbone all came in from the start.

Those changes saw Che Adams, Jan Bednarek and Adam Armstrong drop to the bench, something which raised eyebrows after his comments in midweek.

However, speaking after the loss, the boss explained that he wanted to see what players were ready to compete in the playoffs.

READ MORE: 'Worst game' - Martin explains decision to hook Harwood-Bellis at half-time

He said: "I think that will be the case for the playoffs. Right now it's about actually giving people opportunities.

"In the playoffs, I will pick the team that's trusted the most to deliver a performance and a result.

Russell Martin: "The team that plays from now on will be the team that I think really wants to fight for their teammates, really cares, really wants to win.

"And if you ask me about the team selection after this thing, you'll get the same answer. It will be that."#SaintsFC

— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) April 24, 2024

"After sitting with the emotion on Tuesday evening, I realised that some people actually need to play because we're going to need them.

"It's been such a gruelling schedule. Sam Edozie was outstanding, I thought he had a really brilliant performance.

"Ryan Fraser was good in parts. People deserve to have the opportunity to play. We need to see what they can do and if they're ready.

"It was valuable minutes for some players, Flynn Downes coming back was obviously a boost. That's probably the only positive really."