The Door Isn't Shut – Russell Martin Clear On Southampton Pair

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Southampton boss Russell Martin has stated that he likes Paul Onuachu and Armel Bella-Kotchap and stressed that he has not shut the door on any players.

Onuachu joined Trabzonspor last season on loan and wanted a permanent transfer to the Turkish outfit, which failed to materialise.

Hoffenheim agreed a deal with Southampton for Bella-Kotchap in the summer, but the move collapsed at the last moment after the German club found an issue in the defender's heart.

Martin has not included both players in his recent matchday squads, but he insisted that he has not shut the door on anyone in the squad.

While explaining why he did not pick Onuachu and Bella-Kotchap in his matchday squad for the EFL Cup game against Everton, Martin stated that his decision was based on who would fit his style of play for that game.

Martin also stated that he had a detailed discussion with both players before the end of the summer transfer window and insisted that he likes both Onuachu and Bella-Kotchap.

“I have to balance the short, medium and long-term plans for the club and who fits the style of play the best", Martin said on BBC Radio Solent.

"Tonight it’s these guys – on Saturday [against Ipswich] it will be someone different.

"The door isn’t shut for anyone.

“I have to make decisions based on what I think is best for the team and club.

“I like them both.

“They train hard but I was really honest with them before the transfer window closed and I’ve been honest with them since it closed.”

Now it remains to be seen whether Onuachu and Bella-Kotchap will be able to force their way into Martin's plans for the rest of the season.

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