Why Onuachu has struggled to score in England explained by Saints manager
Paul Onuachu scored 70 goals in the previous two and half seasons in Belgium before a January transfer to England where he is yet to score in 11-games.
While this situation has left some supporters at St Mary’s miffed with the Nigerian forward, Southampton manager Ruben Selles has offered explanation for the Nigerian forwards struggles in England.
“I think sometimes it’s difficult to come straight to the Premier League, and it’s hard to score goals especially in that position. There are some key positions where you need to be more exposed than the others, and that’s the number nine position,” Selles said.
“Probably the change in manager didn’t benefit him. We went to some places that we didn’t go before. That’s mainly it. Usually, when you get a player from the Belgian league or the French league, unless the team is very structured, then they need time to adapt. And that’s what happened. He probably has a different opinion, but that’s my opinion.”
Ruben Selles became the clubs third manager this season in Febuary when he replaced Nathan Jones. Before Jones was Ralph Hasenhüttl who was sacked after four years at the club in November 2022.
Not just Onuachu, a good number of Southampton players struggled this season. As a result of this, the Saints have been relegated to the English Championship and will bid farewell to the top-flight when they face Liverpool FC at St Mary’s on Sunday May 28.
On Sunday, Onuachu could make his 12th appearance for the relegated Saints if selected by manager Ruben Selles who will leave the club after the game.
