present simple wit the meaning of future in reported speech

[vivtof]

Hi there,
if the reporting verb is in the past , does present simple always become past simple in reported speech?
e.g will "the London train leaves in 5 minutes" become the stationmaster explained that the London train left in 5 minutes? :?: :-|

Thanks,
Vivtof

 

[bhaisahab]

Hi there,
if the reporting verb is in the past , does present simple always become past simple in reported speech?
e.g will "the London train leaves in 5 minutes" become the stationmaster explained that the London train left in 5 minutes? :?: :-|

Thanks,
Vivtof

I would say '...would leave/would be leaving in 5 minutes".

 

[5jj]

The stationmaster explained that the London train left in 5 minutes?

I'd be quite happy with your suggestion. Bhaisahab's alternatives are, of course, also fine.