MANAGER Russell Martin admitted he is "still surprised" that Saints were able to sign goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale despite a lengthy pursuit.

Ramsdale, 26, picked up his first clean sheet in a Saints shirt in their 1-0 win over Everton, which lifted the side off the bottom of the Premier League table.

The former Arsenal shot-stopper had conceded 19 goals in his first eight games but produced a man-of-the-match performance against the Toffees.

Ramsdale's stellar save low to his right to deny a powerful Michael Keane header was the pick of five to keep Everton at bay, earning praise from his boss.

"He's massive. I think I'm surprised he's here still and that we were able to get him. I'm really grateful that we did," said Martin.

"The support that was shown by everyone to get him. And it took a long time to woo him, court him and try to persuade him to come. 

"But he did, and I hope he's getting as much from it as we are from him because there's a character to him which is immense.

"He has a good voice, trains properly, and adds value in a really nice way. Then on the pitch, his saves against Everton were amazing. 

"The one from Michael Keane, the top, top save, which we knew he would give us moments like that and that can be the difference."

Martin added: "But also the pressure he takes with the ball. At Man City last week, he did incredible things. Against Everton, some brilliant things.

"For me, he's a complete goalkeeper that we're really lucky to have and we have to enjoy it. He has such high standards and I'm pleased for him. 

"He keeps a clean sheet and I think he has an appreciation of what we're trying to be. He's just desperate to help us and he has done."

Saints spent an initial £18million on acquiring England goalkeeper Ramsdale in a deal which could rise to £25million if the St Mary's side beat the drop.

Ramsdale, who has five caps for his country, penned a four-year deal at Staplewood on deadline day and made his debut in a 3-1 defeat at Brentford.