SAINTS boss Russell Martin hopes Adam Armstrong's goal against Stoke City can 'kick-start' the forward's season.

Armstrong converted a penalty in Southampton's 3-2 win in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday evening, opening his account for the season.

The 27 year old, who provided more goals and assists than any other player in the Football League last campaign, has had to be patient following the emergence of Tyler Dibling.

Dibling, 18, has claimed the right-wing spot but Martin admitted he feels Saints are a better team with Armstrong involved.

Adam Armstrong celebrates with Mateus FernandesAdam Armstrong celebrates with Mateus Fernandes (Image: Stuart Martin) He told the Daily Echo: "I think it'll be big for him. Hopefully, it will kick-start his season. He's been really unfortunate because we were playing him as number nine.

"I don't think he's been his most effective for us as a nine. I think he's always been out wide probably, even though he did a great job in the play-offs for us (as a nine).

"I think for us he's been most effective playing wide but he had to play as a nine because Cam Archer came in fairly late and wasn't used to the style of play.

"Paul Onuachu was a bit up in the air. Whilst he was doing that he came out of the team and Tyler Dibling came in on the right and is now one of our top performers. 

"It's been really difficult to leave Arma out because I think we're a better team with him in it for sure because of his character and his personality.

"It is also his understanding of what we need and his willingness to run. Tonight will do him the world of good. I thought he was brilliant until he got a bit tired."

Armstrong scored 24 goals and provided 13 assists - including the winner in the play-off final - as Southampton won promotion back to the Premier League last season.

He has not started a league fixture since he was hooked at half-time at Brentford on Saturday, August 31.