SAINTS boss Russell Martin heaped praise on Aaron Ramsdale, suggesting it is unfair on the goalkeeper to concede seven goals in his first three games for the club.

Five-time England international Ramsdale joined Southampton on deadline day from Arsenal in a bid for regular football.

He immediately displaced Alex McCarthy between the sticks, making his debut the next day against Brentford in a 3-1 defeat.

Ramsdale conceded three more goals against Manchester United at St Mary's despite managing to make seven saves - keeping Martin's side in the game for a long period.

Aaron Ramsdale made five saves against IpswichAaron Ramsdale made five saves against Ipswich (Image: Richard Crease) The 26 year old looked set to keep his first clean sheet, having made two brilliant saves, against Ipswich on the weekend before Sam Morsy's late equaliser stung Southampton hearts.

Expected goals stats state that Ramsdale prevented two goals against Ipswich, while Morsy's heavily deflected equaliser was ranked at 0.04 xG.

Only Kepa Arrizabalaga (6.72) and Mark Flekken (5.12) have made more saves per 90 minutes than Aaron Ramsdale (5.08) in the Premier League this season.

“He’s a top goalkeeper," said a disappointed Martin at St Mary's. "He’s played three games and I don’t know how he’s conceded three goals.

“It’s not fair on him really. The stuff he does with the ball at his feet, the decisions he make, help us as a group and as a team.

“He’s a top goalkeeper and he’s showing that. I’ve only watched the equaliser once and that was enough because it made me feel sick."