MANAGER Russell Martin reiterated out-on-loan loan winger Sam Edozie remains an important player for the "big picture" at Southampton.

Edozie, 21, has joined Belgian outfit Anderlecht on a deal until the end of the season following a summer which saw Saints add more experienced attacking options.

The England youth international had his heart set on playing regular football - and was close to joining Rangers - before tasting European football for the first time.

Edozie has already racked up 12 appearances for Les Mauve et Blanc across all competitions, scoring twice and providing two assists.

The Manchester City academy graduate scored his first Europa League goal in a 2-0 win over Bulgarian side Ludogorets last month.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin appealed for Edozie to improve his communications with the club before suggesting the youngster is enjoying the challenge.

Asked about Edozie's progress, he said: "We've had different people go over and watch him, Matt Gill's been over, Olly Lancashire's (head of player strategy) been over.

"Gilly went over again last weekend to watch him. We are in constant contact, he's doing well and it's been good for him.

READ MORE: 'Back where he was' - Martin sets challenge for Edozie during Anderlecht loan

"He's in a different environment and has a different challenge. He seems to be enjoying it. I would implore Sam to be better at text messaging and give us a bit more detail," Martin smiled. 

"We will keep sending people over there a bit regularly to make sure we're having a conversation.

"Face-to-face contact is always better and easier. I wish I had the time to go over myself, but at the minute I haven't.

"There will be a time when I do. He's an important player for us in terms of the big picture. I think this season will be really good for him."

Edozie made 34 appearances for Southampton in the Championship last season. He scored six times - a career-best season tally to date.

However, all but one of his goals came before the turn of the year. Martin has challenged Edozie to recapture his form from early last season.