‘Different option’ – Russell Martin explains decision to start Taylor over Walker-Peters

Taylor kept his spot in the starting lineup after providing an assist for Taylor Harwood-Bellis against Everton in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday evening. Walker-Peters dropped to the bench for the first time this season - just as he did last time out against Ipswich. The two-time England international was benched at Portman Road last season but Martin admitted that missing two games against the Tractor Boys is only a coincidence. Southampton's Charlie Taylor was booked for a foul on Wes Burns (Image: Adam Davy/PA) He played down any suggestion that Walker-Peters dropped to the bench as a result of talks around a new contract. Martin told the Daily Echo: "I think it's a coincidence, really. It was about putting out the team that I thought would give us the best performance. "On Tuesday, I told the guys that they need to put in a performance that can put them in the team on the weekend. "I thought Charlie did that. With a natural left-footer on that side, I think it gives us a different option there with more balance. "Yuki has been outstanding (at right-back). I think he's been one of our best players so far this season. "Unfortunately for Kyle, he misses out. Now it's up to him to force his way back into the team."