Aribo blames limited playing for woeful first season in EPL

Southampton forward Joe Aribo admitted his debut season was “very frustrating” as he feels he did not get a proper chance to help stave off relegation.

The Nigerian international only made three appearances in the second half of the campaign after playing either a starting or substitute role in all of the first 18.

Aribo, 26, netted twice in the Premier League under former manager Ralph Hasenhuttl following a summer move from Europa League finalists Rangers.

The versatile man, who can play anywhere in the two advanced thirds of the pitch, has been linked with a move to Turkish side Besiktas.

For now, he is a Saints player and could still be in new boss Russell Martin’s plans – his last season in the Football League saw him score 10 for League One Charlton.

Speaking to Planet Sport Football Africa, Aribo assessed his debut season at St Mary’s, saying: “For me, very frustrating.

"It was tough because you want to do so well for yourself, you know. I had a new challenge and I wanted to hit the ground running.

“I had all of these goals and what I wanted to do, also to help the team. But I didn't feel I got the chance to do that and it was really frustrating. It was a season of learning.”

Aribo added: “But also, I felt like I needed that season because it was God that put me in that situation and I have learned that he doesn't do it for no reason.

“There was a reason behind it. Right now I am questioning that reason but we just have to put our faith in God and trust.

 'It's really frustrating. You kind of don't know what to do with yourself because for me, as you said, I have never experienced so I didn't know how to take it.

"It was a bitter one to take, but another reason why it was so bitter for me is because I didn't really get a chance, a proper chance, to help the team. Like, seeing it all unfold was really upsetting for me."