Southampton boss Nathan Jones gives update on Aribo’s future

Aribo was a late substitute as Southampton suffered defeat at Newcastle

PREMIER LEAGUE Southampton boss Nathan Jones gives update on Aribo’s future

Joba Ogunwale 16:12 - 27.01.2023

The Super Eagles star has struggled for game time since the new boss arrived, leading to speculations that he could leave the club.

Southampton boss Nathan Jones has shut down rumours of Super Eagles star Joe Aribo leaving the club. 

Aribo joined Southampton from Rangers last summer for a reported fee of €7.10 million, signing a four-year deal with the club. 

Aribo's slow start in England

However, he has had a largely underwhelming season so far at the club with two league goals in 18 matches as Southampton sit joint-bottom of the Premier League. 

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The Saints have already sacked Ralph Hasenhüttl- the man who brought in Aribo- for the club’s poor display this season. Following Hasenhüttl’s dismissal, Southampton appointed Jones to replace the Austrian. 

Aribo's struggles under Jones 

However, since Jones took over, Aribo has struggled for game time, with his last appearance coming in Southampton’s 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on January 7. 

Aribo has not played much under Southampton

With Aribo struggling for games, speculations have emerged that the Nigeria international could return to Rangers. 

However, Jones has shut down the rumours, saying Aribo will get his chance and he intends to keep the former Rangers star. 

"Joe is someone I want to keep here. I like Joe, Joe is definitely someone I'd like to be here. He's been a bit unlucky not to play since Palace but that will change,” Jones said. 

Nathan Jones say Aribo will get his chance

Aribo could get his chance on Saturday as Southampton take on Blackpool in the FA Cup fourth round. 

Despite their poor form in the league, the Saints have had a decent Cup campaign so far. Southampton are currently in the semi-final of the Carabao Cup while they are also on course to reach the fifth round of the FA Cup. 

Jones’ men return to Premier League action with a trip to Brentford on February. 

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