Dibling labels Southampton boss Martin as his 'second Dad'

Dibling, 18, has started each of the last five Premier League fixtures, picking up his first goals and assists of his promising professional career.

Martin handed Dibling his first senior appearance in the Carabao Cup defeat at Gillingham in August 2023, when he was 17 years old.

Dibling wore his socks high then at the request of former director of football Jason Wilcox, although he has since returned to the Jack Grealish style.

He dictates his own game now, insisting he fears no opponent and "has not been nervous" since his first pass on his first start against Manchester United.

Dibling says Martin predicted his rise last campaign, explaining: "He did say to me a few times that I would break through next season properly.

Saints manager Russell Martin and Tyler Dibling at St Mary's (Image: PA)

"He makes sure you're comfortable and that you know you're in his plans for the future. He has been amazing, he's like my second Dad.

"He cares a lot and shows me that he does. There's a clip he's telling me off in but he says what you need to hear.

"He does it in a loving way and he is getting the best out of me so I really appreciate it. I had only played five minutes in the league last year.

"I was thinking should I go on loan or can I show I am ready for the Premier League? The best outcome happened."

Martin is not the first boss to introduce Dibling to the senior game after Ralph Hasenhuttl took him to a Premier League match in 2022. 

Dibling watched on from the sidelines as Saints were beaten 3-0 at Brentford, with the likes of Newcastle United and Chelsea pursuing him. 

"I remember being in the under-16s when I went on the bench with Ralph and it was a bit surreal," said Dibling. "You think 'this is it'.

"Once you get older, you then have more focus on becoming a proper pro. Although, I accidentally sat in Stuart Armstrong's seat on the bus - but he let me take it and moved next to James Ward-Prowse."