Southampton sign Rangers midfielder who was one of those who saw a card from the referee during the memorable match with Slavia

Southampton have completed the transfer of midfielder Joe Aribo, who is leaving Rangers after 3 years.The 25-year-old Nigerian played in both double matches against Prague S’, when in the infamous match against Slavia he saw a yellow card from the referee in the 86th minute.

During his three seasons with Rangers, Aribo played 148 games, scoring 26 goals and assisting 25 others. The versatile midfielder, who was born in London, has also already picked up 20 starts for the Nigeria national team in which he scored two goals.

Aribo has most often been seen in the centre of midfield, but can equally play on the flanks. Whether on the left or the right, up front or at the back, it is no obstacle for the 183 centimetres tall footballer.

Ralph Hasenhüttl is well aware of this. “Joe is a player with many qualities that he brings to the game. We are really happy to welcome him to our squad in time for the pre-season preparations in Austria,” the Saints coach told the club’s website on the transfer of Aribo.

“We believe Joe will bring energy and creativity to our game as he can play in many positions, which is really helpful for the coach. It shows the player’s football intelligence when he can absorb new information very quickly,” Hasenhüttl continued his praise.

Given his preferred 4-4-2 formation, Aribo is a really invaluable player for the Austrian coach and will significantly increase the quality in the midfield.

Southampton have long been one of the clubs struggling with the lowest budget in the Premier League. Last season they finished 15th in the table, having just 5 points ahead of 18th placed Burnley.

Meanwhile, Saints brought in three even more expensive reinforcements than they paid for Aribo (€7 million). However, both goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu (20 years old – 14 million euros), defensive midfielder Roméo Lavia (18 years old – 12 million euros) and stopper Armel Bella-Kotchap (20 years old – 10 million euros) are still players whose minutes on the pitch will probably not increase as much as other teammates at the beginning.

However, given Southampton’s long-term concept, more big transfers are not expected, although they would really be needed if the club wants to remain competitive. In the current line-up, we are otherwise talking about one of the relegation aspirants.

Source: Southampton, Transfermarkt, SK Slavia Praha