Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo open to playing as a ‘super sub’ for Southampton

The Nigerian international came from the bench in the 62nd minute to make an impact for the Saints in last weekend’s Premier League match as Southampton went down two goals against Leeds United.

The Nigerian international admitted that he discussed with the Southampton coach Ralph Hassenhuttl before the match and he knew he would come on as a substitute.

Aribo told Daily Record that Hassenhuttl had tasked him with making an impact from the bench which he did against Leeds United.

Aribo said: “I spoke to the manager the day before the match and he just said ‘be ready for me’ for when I need to come on and impact the game.

“Things like that happen. That’s what I do, every time I play I want to leave my impact on the pitch and luckily I was able to do that.”

The Super Eagles midfielder further admitted that he is fine with coming on from the bench as long as he can contribute to the team either as a starter or as a substitute.

“The manager said he was going to take me out and give me some time. I’m here to do the job so no matter if I’m starting on the bench or starting in the team I’m ready to make my impact on the team,” Aribo explained.

Aribo has now scored two goals in three matches for Southampton, bagging goals against Villarreal (in pre-season) and Leeds United.

The 26-year-old midfielder is hoping to recreate the impact he had in front of goal at Rangers where the Nigerian recorded 26 goals and 25 assists in just 148 games for the Scottish giants.