Southampton‘s manager, Will Still, has shed light on why Super Eagles midfielder Joe Ayodele Aribo has not featured in the squad this season, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
There was widespread speculation that Aribo might depart St. Mary’s during the recent transfer period, especially after Southampton’s relegation from the English Premier League last campaign.
Amid uncertainty surrounding his future, Aribo was absent from the club’s preseason activities.
Although linked with moves to clubs such as Rangers and Besiktas, the Nigerian midfielder was unable to complete a transfer and thus remains at Southampton.
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Why Aribo Has Seen Limited Playing Time This Season
Following Ivan Juric‘s exit to Atalanta, Will Still assumed the role of Southampton’s head coach.
The 33-year-old tactician initially attributed Aribo’s omission from matchday squads to the fierce competition for places within the team.
Southampton’s recent form has been underwhelming, with just one win in their last five outings, leaving them 16th in the EFL Championship. This has sparked questions about why experienced players like Aribo have not been utilized more frequently.
“Joe Aribo and Samuel Edozie remain part of the squad, but they missed a large chunk of preseason, and we want to be upfront about that,” Still explained to the Daily Echo.
“The dilemma is: who do you leave out? Do you drop Leo Scienza, Tom Fellows, Finn Azaz, or Jay Robinson to accommodate Sam Edozie’s return?”
“These are challenging decisions, and I strive to be as fair and transparent as possible. It’s tough, but necessary, and that’s the stance we’re taking at the moment,” the Belgian coach added.
In midfield, Aribo competes with players like Shea Charles, Flynn Downes, Caspar Jander, Kuryu Matsuki, and the emerging talent Moses Sesay for a starting berth.
Southampton have accumulated only 12 points from their opening ten Championship fixtures this season, sitting ten points behind league leaders Coventry City.