Martin outlines reason for Manning's improved Southampton performances

The Irish fullback, who joined from Swansea City in the summer, has started the last five league games after losing his place to the injured James Bree.

Since returning to the starting lineup, Manning has created 13 chances - a tally only bettered by Adam Armstrong (14).

Asked by the Daily Echo about the upturn in Manning's form, Martin explained how the summer signing has taken time to settle on the south coast.

He said: “In the last four or five games Ryan has been so good. It is the Ryan that we know.

“You can’t underestimate that he moved clubs just after having a baby. He and his partner spent a lot of time in a hotel trying to find a house.

“Living in a hotel room is not ideal with a new baby - some people take it for granted that a player can join and settle in.

“The expectation of working with us before meant people expected him to hit the ground running. He played well in the early games and then he paid for a lack of pre-season.

“He came in so late and didn’t have a pre-season. That catches up on you. Then James Bree came in and he did fantastic."

Ryan Manning has only missed three league games this season (Image: Stuart Martin)

Martin continued: “Ryan is always at his best when there is a bit of competition and a bit of edge. Now he understands that he has to work really hard to keep his place in the team.

“We have Kyle Walker-Peters who can play on the left and do incredible stuff there. Jack Stephens can play on the right. Breezy will also be back very soon.

“I’m really pleased for Ryan that you’ve started to see the best version of him. When he is in his best place, he is one of the best in the league in my opinion.

“That is why we worked so hard to get him here. He has been fantastic with the group as well, he is a big character.

“He and Joe Lumley have been great for the dressing room. They are old pals from QPR so they are up to all sorts of shenanigans. I think they are two of the culprits for Wee Man’s car.