Southampton manager Russell Martin has said that ‘there hasn’t’ been any talks with playmaker Stuart Armstrong over a new contract.
Armstrong has made eight starts so far this season since Martin took charge of the Saints in the summer. He has made an appearance in every game in the Championship this season, scoring two goals.
The Scotland international has become an integral part of the Southampton midfield, and has been a regular at St Mary’s since his arrival back in 2018.
Martin confirms there have been no talks over new deal
With his contract currently due to expire in the summer, Martin has confirmed no talks have happened as of yet in terms of tying the 31-year-old down to a new deal.
“There hasn’t been any conversation about renewing his contract at the moment,” Martin told the Daily Echo. I think Stuey just wants to focus on playing football.
“He has had a really difficult 18 months/two years, he’s not enjoyed it very much – I don’t think he will mind me saying that.
“Knowing him and having played with him, I am delighted that he’s in the place that he is in. We have seen him come back to life with his energy and his smiling.
“I really love Stuey as a person, he’s highly intelligent and a brilliant footballer, but you can only really show that when you have the opportunity to do that and you’re in a good place with yourself, where you feel valued and like an important part of things.”
Armstrong wage demands might be an issue
Armstrong is a player that Saints will definitely want to keep around, but wages might be an issue.
Armstrong is more than likely on Premier League wages and will be one of Saints’ highest earners.
So, if Saints are to stay in the Championship for another year, it is likely that Armstrong will have to have his wages reduced in order for him to stick around.