Martin accepts importance of keeping Downes at Southampton

The 25 year old was Southampton's key man again in their 2-1 win over Leeds United on the final day of the Championship season.

Saints have only won two of 10 league matches without Downes since he signed, only losing once in a match he started since October. 

Downes is set to return to West Ham at the end of his loan spell next month with Hammers boss David Moyes set to depart the club. 

His future remains unclear but Martin, who managed Downes at Swansea, will encourage bosses to attempt to keep him. 

Asked how important it is to sign him permanently, Martin responded: "Flynn, yeah, I told you before I think he's the best in the league.

Saints manager Russell Martin applauds the supporters at Elland Road (Image: PA)

"This team has missed him so much when he hasn't played. We haven't been quite able to replace him when he has not played.

"I thought we all stepped up and Joe Rothwell came on at Leeds and was brilliant when Flynn did go off the pitch. 

"But Flynn is really important and last weekend there were really important minutes for him. He got through it and now he'll be good."

Downes made his first start in nearly a month at Elland Road after missing defeats versus Cardiff City and Leicester City through injury.

He is expected to be fit to start the Championship playoff semi-final at West Brom on Sunday, in the first leg of the clash. 

Last month, Downes told the Daily Echo that he has not spoken to club bosses about his future next season and beyond. 

He said: "I am focusing on the games here. I haven’t had any contact with anyone about what is going to happen next year.

“I’m just going to focus on these eight games and see what happens. I love playing here. I’ve absolutely loved my time here.

"If it ends up coming to an end then it is what it is. If I go back to West Ham, then that is what it is too."