Martinez told the Evening Post: "That's what you want in the squad. The manager never makes the decision, the football makes the decision, I've always felt that way.
"The Chelsea game was Jason's first league start and the first time he'd played against a pair as experienced as Ricardo Carvalho and John Terry.
"To see him enjoying his football and being a rock was pleasing, but it didn't surprise me at all because that's why we signed him.
"He is still adapting to a new level and a new football club and I think he will put smiles on a lot of people's faces this season."
CLICK HERE FOR THE MESSAGEBOARD