In an exciting development for Nigerian football fans, Southampton midfielder Joe Aribo is reportedly on the brink of a recall to the Super Eagles. This news comes as the team’s head coach, Eric Chelle, looks to bolster his team’s midfield ahead of the World Cup qualifiers scheduled for next month.
A reliable source informed SCORENigeria that Aribo is “highly rated” by Chelle, who is keen to have the talented midfielder back in the team.
Aribo has been included in the provisional squad for the upcoming qualifiers, signalling the coach’s intention to reintegrate him into the national setup.
The 28-year-old Aribo made his debut for the Super Eagles in September 2019, quickly establishing himself as a valuable asset. He has netted two goals for Nigeria and has earned an impressive 34 caps over the years. Despite his contributions, Aribo’s last appearance in a Super Eagles jersey came during the final of the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Côte d’Ivoire, where he played a mere four minutes as a late substitute.
This season, Aribo has shown commendable form in the Premier League, scoring three goals in 24 appearances for Southampton. His versatility is a significant advantage; he is not only adept at playing as a central midfielder but can also effectively fulfil roles as a defensive midfielder or an attacking midfielder. This ability allows Chelle to utilise him in various tactical formations, making him an invaluable player for the national team.
As the Super Eagles prepare for the challenges of the World Cup qualifiers, fans will undoubtedly be hopeful that Aribo’s return could provide the squad with the creativity and dynamism needed on the pitch. With his experience and skill set, he has the potential to be a game-changer for Nigeria’s aspirations on the international stage. The upcoming qualifiers promise to be an exhilarating period for both the players and supporters, and Aribo’s inclusion could play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s quest for World Cup glory.
