MANAGER Russell Martin praised Adam Lallana for enabling his Saints teammates to grow as leaders during his time out injured.
Academy graduate Lallana has not featured for Saints since re-joining the club on a one-year deal this summer but is in regular training.
Lallana travelled to Newcastle for their opening game – although he was not in the matchday squad – and was seen in conversation with Sam Edozie before he came on at half-time.
Videos shared by Southampton‘s media team on social media have also shown the 36 year old passing on advice to his Saints teammates.
Southampton hope to have the former England international back in contention for selection in the coming weeks.
Asked about the role Lallana has played off the field during his time on the sidelines, Martin told the Daily Echo: “He’s been brilliant.
“To be on the pitch was not the only reason we signed Adam. I said that at the time. He’s going to really drive things for us with the players in that group and be a voice.
“He is already (a voice) in the meetings, which is brilliant. It’s enabling the others to grow a little bit and lead a bit. Taylor, Flynn, Jack, all those guys.
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“He’s been brilliant for the group. He’s back on the grass now and, hopefully, he’ll be involved in the next week or two, but he’s not just a player for us.
“It’s about everything that he brings in terms of leadership and football intelligence and belief in the style of play that we have and understanding the club.
“He knows what the young guys have been through because he’s been there. It’s going to be hugely important for us. He’ll be a really, really important signing.
“Hopefully for moments on the pitch as well, but mostly for everything else around that and what he brings.”
