Joe Aribo’s Southampton return to the English Premier League after defeating Leeds at Wembley

Joe Ayodele-Aribo’s Southampton will play in the English Premier League next season after relegating just a year ago, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Saints dropped into the English second-division last season, but have been rejuvenated under Russell Martin in the Championship. Despite missing out on the top-two spots to Leicester City and Ipswich Town, the Reds grabbed their chance against Daniel Farke’s Leeds United.

Southampton broke the deadlock at Wembley in the 23rd minute. A brilliant series of stringed passes before William Smallbone’s pass slipped through to Adam Armstrong who buried the shot into the bottom corner of Ilian Meslier’s goal.

Joe Aribo set up England-born Nigeria-eligible winger, Samuel Edozie in the 67th minute with a brilliant through-ball, but the 21-year-old curled the ball way too wide.

Leeds came closest to levelling the score with seven minutes left on the clock. Former Manchester United winger, Daniel James, rattled the crossbar with a volley, but the Saints held on.

The final whistle was met with cheers from the Southampton supporters after their manager’s biggest dream came through.

“I feel emotional and overwhelmed by the love and support I’ve had over the past year. I’m so pleased for and proud of the team. I’ve enjoyed watching the team and players grow,” an overjoyed Russell Martin told Sky Sports Football after coaching Southampton to a Premier League return.

Aribo was not selected by Finidi George as a part of the Super Eagles team to tackle South Africa and Benin Republic next month.