Nathan Jones, the coach for Southampton, acknowledges the captaincy following Martin’s choice
Nathan Jones, the coach for Southampton, acknowledges the captain After the Martin Decision, SAINTS forward Adam Armstrong acknowledged that he prefers to lead by example rather than “scream at” teammates in the locker room.
Following this year’s injury to Jack Stephens, manager Russell Martin has chosen the 26-year-old to take the captain’s armband.
It happens at the same time as Armstrong, who was acquired in 2021 for £15 million from Blackburn Rovers, is making some of his acquisition cost up on the field.
Armstrong is a proven Championship goalscorer, with 16 and 28 in his last seasons at the level, continuing that having already netted seven this term.
The Geordie, who is also assigned to penalty duty this season following the departure of James Ward-Prowse, has been speaking about his role.
He told the Daily Mirror: “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do (captain the team). I was captain for a little bit at Blackburn when we had injuries.
“It’s an honour to have the armband. I’m not one to scream at players in the changing room, it’s more about encouragement on the pitch and leading by example.
“I’ve played a lot of games now – I think over 300 – so I’ll bring my experience of this league and what I know and help the young lads when they need it.”
Armstrong added: “It’s a case of getting used to it, being a leader, but it’s something I’m enjoying at the minute.
“It was something that just came about; I wasn’t thinking about that. I was primarily focused on getting my head down and trying to get going straight away.
“The gaffer has put his trust in me and I’d like to think I’m repaying that out on the pitch.”
Armstrong is one of several Saints players to benefit from the arrival of former Swansea City boss Martin and a change in style.
He failed to adapt to Premier League level, scoring just four goals in 53 appearances, with his role changing from number nine to defensive winger over two years.
“It’s been spot on (since Martin came in),” Armstrong said. “I can only speak for myself, but training has been intense.
“The way he wants to play is different to the last manager. Even for me, being here and at other teams, it’s different to them as well, but it’s something that I love.
“I played in the Championship, so I understand what it’s like; it’s a challenging league. This division is all about bouncing back, which is exactly what we’ve done after four games without a victory.
Without a doubt, a lot of teams will experience that this season, he continued. Any time there is a change at work, it always takes some time to establish it.
The guys aren’t used to playing this way because it’s been a while. We continue to work toward achieving it.
Change will always be difficult, but I believe we are over that point and can continue.
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