“He can do it” – Juric sends tactical message to Eric Chelle on using Joe Aribo as a centre-back

Super Eagles star Joe Aribo could have to play as a makeshift centerback for a while as Southampton coach Ivan Juric has expressed optimism that he can operate from that position, Soccernet.ng reports.

Juric used Aribo as a makeshift centerback in Southampton's 2-1 win over Ipswich Town last week. The Super Eagles star started the game as a central midfielder and even scored the opener for them in the 21st minute. But he had to move to centerback after injuries to Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Jack Stephens.

Both players are still expected to be out of action for Southampton's FA Cup clash against Burnley on Saturday. This means that Aribo could play as a makeshift centre-back.

Ahead of the game, Juric said he might still use Aribo as a center back against Burnley. However, he admits that the 28-year-old's instinct as a midfielder could be a disadvantage.

21′ – Joe Aribo goal
87′ – Paul Onuachu goal

Naija boys to the rescue for Southampton as they secure their first PL away win of the season. pic.twitter.com/Lz81JdEdiB

— Soar Super Eagles (@SSE_NGA) February 1, 2025

“You need players that can play against fast players, and it's much more important to be fast than maybe it is to be tall,” Juric said, per Daily Echo.

“It's like a different concept of football and maybe (James) Bree is doing well as a right-centre-back because he has these characteristics for the position.

“And Aribo, normally if I use him always there, he will go down, because mentally he's a midfielder and he wants to attack. But sometimes, he's a great guy, he can do it.”

This is not the first time Aribo will play in a position other than midfield. During his time at Rangers, he played the false nine role numerous times. And although playing as a centerback is a totally different proposition, Burnley will not be a big test.

How Eric Chelle can get the best out of Joe Aribo in March

The reason Aribo is playing as a centerback is Southampton's injury problems. However, on the international scene, Aribo has never played in any other position aside from midfield.

Moreover, Nigeria already have adequate cover in defence and coach Eric Chelle will not need to use any player in an unnatural position. Moreover, the African game is a totally different proposition, so Aribo could struggle badly.

In the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, Nigeria are condemned to beat Rwanda and Zimbabwe, and Aribo could get the opportunity to shine. The Southampton star has a high activity rate on the pitch, and he could partner with Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi in midfield.

While Ndidi does the dirty work, Aribo, with his short passes and high work rate, could dictate the pace of his game. Iwobi would then be free to create chances in the final third.

However, there are a lot of midfielders at Chelle's disposal. As such, Aribo might not even make the team.