Martin yet to discuss Southampton contract extension with Armstrong

The Scot has one year left on his current deal, which expires in June 2024, having signed a three-and-a-half-year extension in January 2021.

Armstrong faced uncertainty during the summer transfer window but was convinced to stay at St Mary’s by his former Scotland teammate Martin.

“There hasn’t been any conversation about renewing his contract at the moment. I think Stuey just wants to focus on playing football.

“He has had a really difficult 18 months/two years, he’s not enjoyed it very much – I don’t think he will mind me saying that.

“Knowing him and having played with him, I am delighted that he’s in the place that he is in. We have seen him come back to life with his energy and his smiling.

“I really love Stuey as a person, he’s highly intelligent and a brilliant footballer, but you can only really show that when you have the opportunity to do that and you’re in a good place with yourself, where you feel valued and like an important part of things.”

Armstrong has made eight starts since Martin took over as Saints manager this summer and is now considered a crucial part of the midfield.

He has popped up with some important goals during those appearances, putting Southampton ahead early against Rotherham just days after his stunning free-kick to beat Stoke City 1-0.