Southampton manager Russell Martin has praised Joe Aribo despite his side’s disappointing 5-1 defeat to Chelsea at St Mary’s Stadium on Wednesday night.
Softfootball took note thatThe Nigerian midfielder was one of the few bright spots for the Saints as they struggled against Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea side. Aribo scored Southampton’s only goal of the match, marking his second goal of the season and giving the home supporters something to cheer about during a difficult evening.
Speaking after the game, Martin highlighted the performances of players who stepped up despite limited playing time, with Aribo among those he singled out for praise.
“I learned a lot about some people and I thought Nathan Wood was outstanding on his debut, James Bree was excellent coming into the team for us,” Martin said.
Joe Aribo was the same, the guys that have come in from not playing so much were really outstanding and I’m proud of them for that.
