MANAGER Russell Martin admitted Saints will make use of Paul Onuachu "if the game dictates" they need his "profile."

Onuachu, 30, was a surprise inclusion on the bench against AFC Bournemouth on Monday evening having previously been out of Martin's plans.

Martin has been impressed by the Nigerian's willingness to improve and learn a system which is totally different to anything he has played in before.

The boss revealed that Onuachu has earned his way back into the fold before insisting his spot on the bench was not a "token."

Asked if there is a temptation to use Onuachu this season, Martin told the Daily Echo: “If the game dictates that we need a player of Paul’s profile, then yes.

“I’ve been really impressed with him and his mentality to train, his willingness to do exactly what we are asking him to do, even though it is very different to what he has done before.

“He is a real handful and has some unique strengths. If the game calls for him at some point, he’s on the bench for a reason. He’s not there for a token.

“Our squad is massive so you have to really earn your place on the bench. That will change from game to game. Paul is there and he’s ready to be used when he is needed.”

Onuachu is yet to score for Saints but hit 17 goals in 25 games while on loan at Turkish side Trabzonspor last season.

Saints had hoped to strike a deal to sell Onuachu this summer, however, teams were unwilling to meet their demands.