Super Eagles star Aribo scores in Southampton’s pre-season win at Reading

Aribo has been linked with a move away from the Saints Marys, after an uninspiring debut season in England

Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo marked his return to Southampton after the holidays with a goal in their 4-2 pre-season victory over Reading, Soccernet.ng reports

The 27-year-old has been linked with a move from Southampton in this transfer window.

He has struggled in his first season in England, scoring two goals in 21 league appearances, with Southampton relegated to the Sky Bet Championship at the end of last season.

Aribo has remained of interest to many clubs in England and across Europe, with Turkish giants Besiktas reported reaching out to the Championship side to inquire about the availability of the Nigerian midfielder, who joined the club from Rangers just 12 months ago.

However, he returned to score a goal in Southampton's pre-season friendly away at Reading on Saturday afternoon. The 27-year-old was given an extended time out following his involvement in an International assignment with Nigeria.

Aribo came on in the 71st minute to score Southampton's fourth goal. He was at the right place to finish off a cross from Che Adam to make the scoreline 4-1.

His compatriot Paul Onuachu was missing from the Saints' squad for the friendly game.

Southampton will play Bournemouth next in another friendly game, before starting their Championship campaign with an away fixture at Sheffield Wednesday on the 4th of August.