BOSS Russell Martin insisted Alex McCarthy starting as the Saints number one is not a problem but he is open to signing another goalkeeper.

McCarthy, 34, is set to start Southampton's trip to Newcastle United to begin the 2024/25 Premier League season on Saturday.

The veteran shot-stopper penned a new two-year contract this summer after filling in for the injured Gavin Bazunu as the club won promotion.

Martin's tactical demands have put McCarthy under pressure with the ball at his feet during pre-season, resulting in some nervy moments.

Some fans are concerned about Saints going into the season without competition for the former Reading man - and one asked Martin if he will strengthen.

Martin told the fans' forum: "I think we're looking at strengthening a lot of positions because we have to. It's the Premier League, we're stepping up a level.

Saints boss Russell Martin wants more new signingsSaints boss Russell Martin wants more new signings (Image: Stuart Martin)

"I love the players we've got and we have a strong core group that deserve an opportunity to attack the Premier League in a different way than they did last time.

"But I think we have to be open to players coming in before the end of the transfer window and whatever position we deem fit really.

"Pre-season is pre-season. I'd much rather Alex made mistakes trying to do the right thing now than not," Martin continued.

"It'd be more of a problem if he didn't try and do what I'm asking him to do. I'm pretty relaxed about it. I think he's been better as the games have gone on.

"Hlso he's been much better when the players who are going to play regularly are on the pitch." There's not been much of a problem, really.

"He was incredible at the end of last season, as so many of these guys were. We do need a bit of help. I think everyone's really clear on that.

"When you want good players and you're not willing to just settle, it takes a bit of time. I really believe in our players and also that we are going to have some new players before the end of the transfer window.

"They'll be the ones that we actually want. If a goalkeeper is one of them by the end of the window, it's because we've deemed that someone is better than what we have and that we need that."