SAINTS boss Russell Martin described Sam Edozie's goalscoring performance against Swansea City on Boxing Day as "outstanding."

The winger scored Southampton's second with a backheel after playing a crucial role in setting up Joe Aribo's opener. 

Edozie skipped down the left and delivered a low cross, which was eventually fired in by the Nigerian international.

Asked for his opinion on Edozie's performance and goal, which came following Carl Rushworth's error, Martin praised the 20 year old's work rate.

He said: "Sam was outstanding. He was brave, direct and aggressive. He had end product. He scored by pressing the goalkeeper.

"He doesn't make that mistake unless Sam is there sprinting after him. He has been amazing. 

"I can't believe he finished (it) like that. I thought he was going to turn and hit it with his left foot.

"Big Ben (Cabango) was there chasing him, I didn't think it had crossed the line at first.

"It shows the place he is in. We are asking the guys at the top half of the pitch to do that - to express themselves.

"The rest of the guys have to play with a lot of structure and discipline at times to allow them to do their stuff.

"He is in a really good place at the minute and we need to keep him there."

Edozie has now scored five goals for Southampton this season - the joint second-highest at the club alongside Che Adams.