Southampton head coach, Russel Martin has given his given his support to his midfielder, Joe Aribo ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The tournament scheduled for January 13 to February 11, 2024 has the Super Eagles, Aribo’s team in Group A.
The midfielder, who has revived his career at the club, is expected to be named in Nigeria’s final squad for the 2023 AFCON finals.
Aribo has in recent games for the Saints has been instrumental to the upward Trent of the club and his absence should be of concern at that crucial time of the season.
Martin however, stated that it is important to allow Aribo and other African players in his team represent their country.
“We can’t stop anyone. You want them to go there fit and come back fit. Joe needs to keep playing, now he has been playing and I’m sure he will get into their squad,” Martin told Daily Echo.
“He has been a mainstay in their squad for quite a while. They go with everyone’s best wishes, as you want them to do well.”
Clubs are required to release invited players by January 1, and Aribo is expected to link up with his national teammates in Abu Dhabi on that same day.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun