Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo is at risk of being dropped from Southampton’s starting lineup for their crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United on Saturday at St Mary’s Stadium.
The Saints are winless this season, having lost all three matches against Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, and Brentford while scoring just one goal.
Manager Russell Martin, who has maintained the same starting XI in all three games, has hinted that he will make changes to the lineup against United in an attempt to secure their first points of the season against a formidable opponent.
While Martin has not yet released the official starting lineup, the midfield position is likely to be affected by the planned changes.
“I think after three defeats, there inevitably will be changes. How many, you’ll have to wait and see and who,” Russell said during his pre-match press conference.
“It’s such a difficult position because I feel fiercely loyal to some players that helped get us to the Premier League, and I’ve been in that position. I have to balance that loyalty and what they did last season with what some are actually doing now, and the place they’re in right now.
“I think now it’s inevitable that changes will be made, and people will have opportunities that they need to take. We’re really happy with the team we’re going to put on the pitch. We’re really happy with the work they’ve put in. We’re really happy with where the guys are at.”
