Despite Southampton’s 3-1 defeat to Arsenal in a Premier League clash at the Emirates Stadium, head coach Russell Martin was full of praise for Super Eagles internationals Paul Onuachu and Joe Aribo. Southampton remains winless after seven games this season, having lost six and drawn one.
In this match, Aribo returned to the starting lineup for the first time in four games, while Onuachu made his first Premier League appearance in 511 days. Although Southampton took the lead through Cameron Archer in the 55th minute, Arsenal responded with goals from Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka to secure the win.
Aribo contributed significantly in midfield, displaying physicality and determination. Onuachu, who came off the bench, held his own against Arsenal’s top defenders Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba. Coach Russell Martin singled out both players for their strong performances, particularly praising Aribo’s contributions.
Unfortunately, despite their efforts, neither Onuachu nor Aribo was included in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Libya.
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Editorial
Southampton’s ongoing struggles this season have put the spotlight on individual performances, with Paul Onuachu and Joe Aribo being two standout players in their recent defeat to Arsenal. While the team as a whole continues to search for its first win, Aribo and Onuachu’s contributions in difficult circumstances should not be overlooked. Both players showed resilience and character, qualities that Southampton will need to draw upon if they are to turn their season around.
For Aribo, being back in the starting lineup was a significant moment. His strength in midfield was evident, and his efforts in breaking down Arsenal’s play were commendable. Similarly, Onuachu’s return to the Premier League after such a long absence was a positive step, as he performed well against one of the league’s most formidable defences.
These individual moments of brilliance, however, will need to be complemented by a collective team effort. Southampton’s defensive frailties and inability to hold onto a lead are areas that must be addressed if they are to move up the table. Coach Russell Martin’s praise for Onuachu and Aribo is well deserved, but more will be required from the entire squad to reverse their fortunes.
As Southampton look to the future, the role of these Nigerian stars could prove pivotal. Both Aribo and Onuachu have the potential to become key figures in the team’s quest for survival, and their recent performances offer a glimpse of the impact they could make if given the chance.
Did You Know?
- Joe Aribo joined Southampton from Rangers in 2022, where he played a crucial role in their Scottish Premiership success.
- Paul Onuachu was the top scorer in the Belgian Pro League during the 2020-2021 season, scoring 33 goals for Genk.
- Aribo has previously played in the UEFA Europa League final with Rangers in 2022, where he scored the opening goal.
- Paul Onuachu’s height of 6 ft 7 in makes him one of the tallest outfield players in the Premier League.
- Both Aribo and Onuachu were part of the Nigerian squad at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria reached the Round of 16.
