By Daily Sports Nigeria on August 12, 2024

Southampton manager Russell Martin has described Nigeria international Paul Onuachu as ‘a different Paul’ to the player he saw last season after the striker made a surprise return to action for the Saints, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 30-year-old striker came in as a substitute in the 72nd minute of Southampton’s 0-0 draw with Getafe in their final pre-season friendly on Saturday.

His 18-minute cameo was his only appearance for Southampton since the 3-1 EFL Cup defeat to Gillingham more than a year ago in August 2023.

Following an impressive performance for KRC Genk in the Belgian League, Onuachu caught the attention of the Saints, who eventually paid €18m to sign him during the January transfer window of the 2022/23 season.

The lanky striker failed to replicate his fantastic form as he struggled to adapt to life in England, failing to score in his 12 appearances for the Saints, which led to a season-long loan move.

With the Black Sea Storm, the red-hot Onuachu scored 17 goals and provided four assists in 25 matches, catching the eye of Trabzonspor, who are keen to extend his stay.

While his next move is yet to be sorted out, the striker was in action for the Premier League club against the Spanish side, and his boss was impressed with his performance.

“I just think he’s different from what we have. He’s trained really, really well,” Martin told the Daily Echo.

“He’s a different Paul to the one I came across last season in terms of confidence. I think the last preseason was so difficult for so many of them.

“They hadn’t had a chance in the Premier League, or they’d come in January and not really taken to it that well.

“This summer he’s a different beast, and whilst he’s here, same as Kyle Walker-Peters, we will try and utilise him.”

Saints would like to sell Onuachu before the transfer window closes but have only received one offer from Trabzonspor—a £5m bid, which was rejected.

Saints begin their league campaign with a trip to Newcastle United on Saturday, August 17—with Sekou Mara and Onuachu their only fit number nines.

Source Punch Ng

Posted August 12, 2024

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