Russell Martin blocks any transfer move for Southampton midfield star

Russell Martin has ruled out any future transfer for Southampton's summer signing Matheus Fernandes. He jokingly said the midfielder needs to develop at Southampton.

Southampton signed Mateus Fernandes in the summer transfer window. The Portuguese midfielder has played well so far for the Saints, making nine Premier League appearances.

Ageing at just 20 years old, Fernandes is already showing great maturity on the pitch. He is a physically astute midfielder, his frame allowing him to win both ground and aerial duels with ease.

He also has the engine which allows him to be up and down the pitch. This definitely works for Southampton and it makes the fans wonder just how well the Saints could deal without Fernandes in the starting lineup.

Luckily, this is not a reality expected to be experienced.

Russell Martin blocks any transfer move for Southampton midfield star

According to a report from the Daily Echo, Russell Martin has placed a 'hands-off warning' on Mateus Fernandes. Essentially, he is not up for sale at any price, despite any interest which may come in for him.

In his own words, Russell Martin said: [Mateus Fernandes is an] Amazing player. Brilliant. Top young man. Top talent but nowhere near ready to play for anyone else, he needs a good couple of years here for us first."

Here, Russell Martin is jokingly downplaying Fernandes' abilities to deter any interest from potential suitors. I believe all Saints fans can agree, he is much better off developing his talents in the South East rather than entertaining any moves elsewhere, right? We'll take care of him, don't worry.

Southampton fans are under no illusion. Fernandes is not expected to be flashy and he isn't expected to bag multiple goals in a season. However, what he will do is get stuck in, he will do the difficult midfield work which midfielders of the past might have lacked.

Hopefully, his tenacity in the midfield continues to go unnoticed by other Premier League sides. We will happily sing his praises quietly, to avoid the spotlight being on him (too much, of course).

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