INJURED duo Stuart Armstrong and Gavin Bazunu remain a part of team meetings and are continuing to support their teammates as Saints prepare for the Championship playoff final.

The duo have been key players for Southampton this season but have been forced to watch the final stretch of the campaign from the sidelines.

Midfielder Armstrong is working towards a return ahead of this summer's European Championship with Scotland, while Bazunu has been ruled out until 2025.

The Irish international ruptured his Achilles tendon while warming up ahead of Southampton's win over Preston last month.

Both were in attendance at St Mary's on Friday for Southampton's 3-1 win over West Brom, sitting alongside Che Adams.

READ MORE: Russell Martin explains Che Adams absence and gives final verdict

Speaking to the Daily Echo, Martin explained how the injured pair are juggling their recovery with supporting their teammates' promotion bid.

He said: “I can’t tell you how they are feeling day to day, but the people I see are supporting their teammates incredibly well.

"There will be huge sadness and anger that they can’t finish off the season with their teammates. There will also be some fear about what happens post-injury - for Stu especially.

"He also has the Euros, which he needs to try and get fit for so he can represent his country like he has done 50 times before.

“With Gavin, he has played a lot of football for a young man. This is his first real tough time in the game - there can be some really dark days when you are coming through injury.

READ MORE: Bazunu ruled out until 2025 through ruptured Achilles injury

He continued: “They are very much a part of what we do. They are in every meeting. I’ve sent Gavin some reading suggestions because he has read too many self-help books.

“He needs to start reading some novels in order to switch off a little bit. I don’t know if he’s listened to me, but I did hear an audiobook in his car so I’m hopeful that it is one that I’ve sent him.

“I’ve recommended loads of books to Gavin. He needs to read The Alchemist first and he will enjoy it. 

“They are great human beings, we will support them in any way that we can. They are also supporting their teammates.

"They understand the importance of this moment. It’s a testament to their character that they are helping their teammates.”