Southampton manager lauds Paul Onuachu’s Improved pre-season form

Southampton coach Russell Martin has praised Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu for his remarkable turnaround in form during the pre-season.

Onuachu, who joined Southampton in January 2023 from KRC Genk, struggled to make an impact in the Premier League, failing to score in 11 appearances.

His subsequent loan to Trabzonspor in the 2023/24 season also did not yield the desired results. However, upon his return to Southampton for pre-season training, Onuachu has impressed with his renewed form and work ethic.

Martin, speaking to the Daily Echo, expressed his surprise at Onuachu’s transformation: “I just think he’s different to what we have. He’s trained well. He’s a different Paul to the one I came across last season in terms of confidence. I think the last pre-season was so difficult for so many of them.”

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Martin acknowledged the difficulties faced by Onuachu and other January signings who did not have a full pre-season to adjust to the Premier League: “They hadn’t had a chance in the Premier League or they’d come in January and not taken to it that well.”

Encouraged by Onuachu’s renewed confidence, Martin stated, “This summer he’s a different beast and whilst he’s here, same as Kyle Walker-Peters, we will try and utilise him.”

Despite Onuachu’s impressive pre-season performances, his future with Southampton remains uncertain. However, his recent form may open doors for a more significant role at the club.