RUSSELL Martin is pleased to have Will Smallbone back in training ahead of Saints' lunchtime kick-off against Sunderland on Saturday.

The Republic of Ireland international, who recently signed a three-year contract extension at Southampton, has missed the last two games after suffering an injury against Norwich.

Smallbone has been pictured back in training at Staplewood this week after recovering from a heavy whack to his ankle.

Martin noted that he would have to wait to see if the 23 year old is ready to be in starting contention for this weekend's clash with the Black Cats.

“It’s a massive boost," he replied when asked by the Daily Echo how important Smallbone's return to the side will be. 

"I like the look of the team when Will is in the squad. I think he brings a level of calmness with his quality and composure.

“He has real tenacity and aggression when he is chasing and hunting the ball as well.

“I’m pleased that he is back but we will have to wait and see how ready he is to play on the weekend."

Despite losing former captain James Ward-Prowse and teenage sensation Romeo Lavia this summer, Martin could still suffer from a selection headache when trying to pick his midfield.

Daily Echo: Will Smallbone will miss this weekend's clash at Plymouth Argyle

Smallbone received high praise from the Saints boss before suffering an injury - as has his replacement Shea Charles in the two games he has subsequently started.

Flynn Downes also showcased what he was capable of during his debut against QPR last Saturday, completing 114 out of 115 passes.

“If we have aspirations of getting out of this league then we need the quality of depth and the competition for places that we have," Martin continued.

“They are all really different. We’ve not quite had the right balance in the midfield in the last few games.

“We’ve had a lot of attacking players on the pitch, so we will find a balance in time and we will make sure that the players understand the detail.

“Different games will require different combinations in midfield, I really believe that.

“We have a bit of everything in there which is a nice problem to have. It’s up to me to manage the players and make sure they are all happy - which is the biggest challenge.”