Russell Martin categorically denied any rumours linking Carlos Alcaraz with a move away from St Mary’s following the Saints’ 3-1 loss to Gillingham this week.
The Argentine joined Southampton in January 2023 from Racing Club for a fee in the region of £12 million.
Last season, in the Premier League, the midfielder clocked up six goal involvements in 18 appearances.
He received plaudits for positive performances in a side which finished bottom of the league.
What did Russell Martin say about Carlos Alcaraz?
Martin was quick to praise Alcaraz’s performance off the bench, despite a loss to the Gills: “When Charly came on he probably highlighted the lack of intensity in the game before that.
“He was aggressive, he wanted the ball, and he wanted to make things happen. To get the goal will be great for him, it’s a real positive.”
This showed the manager’s feelings towards the midfielder and gives plenty of reason as to why Alcaraz should be in his squad for the season.
When discussing a potential transfer with the Daily Echo, the former Swansea manager said: “He’s one of the few I haven’t heard any noise about. I’m not on social media, so I don’t know, but I’ve not had a conversation about it.
“We’ve not spoken about it once.”
What does Carlos Alcaraz add?
He loves to get on the ball and dribble forward to put it simply.
Despite not being defensive minded in any real sense, he provides a constant threat on the counter which often elevates pressure on the back line.
One of his biggest strengths is shots from range, although he only had 42% of shots on target last year, it is a useful weapon in the Saints’ arsenal.
With the potential departure of James Ward Prowse, long range efforts and set pieces from Alcaraz could be useful.