‘We have to be fair’ - Southampton manager gives reason why Super Eagles star is yet to play this season

Following Southampton's relegation from the Premier League last season, Aribo's future at St Mary's was the subject of intense speculation. 

Rumours linked him with a move away, with clubs like Rangers and Besiktas reportedly interested in the summer. 

However, a transfer did not materialise and Aribo remained with the Championship side. This also led to the midfielder missing the club's pre-season preparations.

Aribo’s lack of playing time has raised questions among supporters and Still has elaborated on the difficult decisions he faces regarding team selection.

"They [Joe Aribo and Samuel Edozie] are still with us, but they've missed a whole chunk of pre-season, and we have to be fair and honest with everyone." Still explained, as reported by the Daily Echo.

"Who are you taking out? Are you going to say to Leo [Scienza], Tom Fellows, Finn [Azaz] or Jay Robinson, 'you're out because Sam Edozie's back in?'"

"They're just choices that we have to make. I'm just trying to stay as honest and as level as I can with everyone, and they're crap decisions, mate. But you've got to make them, and that's what we're doing for the moment," the Belgian manager concluded.

The manager, who just joined the club, revealed that Aribo's exclusion was due to the strong competition within the squad.

But with the team struggling for form, securing just one win in their last five matches and sitting 16th in the table, the manager has faced further inquiries about the absence of experienced players.

After ten games in the English second tier, Southampton have collected 12 points and find themselves ten points adrift of league leaders Coventry City.