Watch: Russell Martin defends Gavin Bazunu at fan forum

The Southampton boss was emphatic in his backing of the Ireland No 1.

THE SAINT: Ireland and Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu. Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Gavin Bazunu has been lavished with praise by his new Southampton manager Russell Martin after Ireland’s first-choice goalkeeper came under fire for conceding four goals last weekend.

The 20-year-old lost his place last April to Alex McCarthy after starting the first 32 games of the Saints Premier League campaign but the manager who succeeded Ruben Selles swiftly restored Bazunu as his No 1 in their quest to bounce straight back from the Championship.