254
Southampton manager Russell Martin has hinted at a potential boost for his squad, expressing optimism about Paul Onuachu’s return from injury ahead of their Premier League clash against Chelsea.
Onuachu has been out of action since sustaining an injury in Southampton’s 3-2 home defeat to Liverpool last month. However, Martin remains hopeful the Nigerian forward will be available for selection in the midweek showdown.
“We’re hopeful that Paul will be involved on Wednesday, which will be good for us,” Martin told reporters during his pre-match press conference.
Onuachu, 30, joined Southampton in 2023 but spent last season on loan at Trabzonspor, where he delivered an impressive return of 17 goals and four assists in just 25 appearances, playing a key role in helping the Turkish club secure European football.
Despite his prolific form abroad, Onuachu has struggled to replicate that success at Southampton.
In 19 appearances for the Saints, he has yet to register a goal or assist, including six league outings this season.
Nevertheless, Onuachu’s potential return comes at a critical time for Martin’s squad as they prepare to face a rejuvenated Chelsea side currently sitting second in the Premier League table.
His physical presence and attacking threat could be crucial for Southampton as they seek a positive result against one of the league’s top teams.
The Saints will be hoping for a turnaround in form, and having Onuachu back in the squad might just provide the boost they need in what promises to be a challenging fixture.
