Joe Aribo was linked to several clubs during the summer transfer window, but he decided to stay at Southampton…
Southampton coach Will Still has revealed that Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo is yet to play this season due to the high level of competition at the club, Soccernet.ng reports.
After Southampton got relegated from the English Premier League last season, there were a lot of speculations that Aribo would leave the St. Mary's during the transfer market.
Due to the uncertainty surrounding his future, Aribo was left out of Southampton's pre-season. But despite links to clubs like Besiktas and Rangers, the Super Eagles failed to get a move. As a result, he had to stay with the Saints.
However, since the start of the Championship campaign, Aribo has not kicked a ball for Southampton. He hasn't even made any matchday squad yet.
This has raised a few eyebrows, as Aribo was an important player for Southampton in their push for Premier League promotion two seasons ago.
Still Opens Up On Joe Aribo Issue
Saints coach Still, was asked about Aribo's situation, and he revealed that the 29-year-old lack of pre-season preparation is a major reason for his lack of game time.
“We've got 25 or 24 players in the squad with three keepers, and every week we have to leave out six, which is huge, and Aribo missed almost a whole pre-season,” Still said, per daily echo.
“We're just working him back in when we can and where we feel the opportunity's right. But again, you have to balance everything and take everything into consideration.
Still also stressed that there are other players on the team competing for the same position. But, he noted that Aribo will still get his opportunity.
“There's a lot of players in those positions now, and honestly, the part I hate the most in football is leaving people out and telling them they're not involved,” Still added.
“Sometimes you don't even have a reason; it's just a decision I've got to make. I realise they've got to be patient and they've got to read the room, read the situation.
“But I'd rather be honest about it and tell them the way it is. With results and performances like they are, any next game is an opportunity for other people. If they get theirs, then so be it.”
With Joe Aribo's quality, he should be able to regain his place as a starter at Southampton in the coming weeks.
However, if that does not happen, his contract at the club expires at the end of the season, so he will be free to join another club.
