Southampton: Aribo ready to prove he is Premier League level

The 27 year old dropped out of the team during his debut top-flight season, in which the club were relegated from the Premier League.

Aribo made 21 appearances in total, scoring twice, but only played in two of the last 15 games as Saints plummeted down the table.

However, the Nigerian international became a key player for Russell Martin's play-off winners in the Championship this season.

In a team with renewed confidence, Aribo - who scored in a European final for Rangers - is hoping to have a better crack at it.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, he said: "Of course, it was difficult for me last season.

Joe Aribo played every minute in the play-offs against West Brom and Leeds (Image: PA)

"I knew I had to get my head down, work hard, focus and believe in myself. Sometimes when it's not going well, you tend to lose belief.

"I believe in myself and feel like I've just been getting from chance to chance and there's only more to come."

Aribo added: "Of course, I want to step up. God's given me so much talent and I truly believe.

"I know what I am capable of as long as I'm feeling confident in myself and good in myself, and I'm fit and well." 

Aribo got fans excited early in his Saints career with a stunningly skilful solo goal against Villareal in pre-season.

He then went on to net in Premier League matches against Leeds United in August and Everton in October. 

That was his last contribution to the campaign, while he bagged four in the second half of this Championship season. 

Aribo insisted: "I always want to score goals every game I play in.

Joe Aribo netted his fourth of the season at Cardiff City in April (Image: PA)

"Next season, hopefully, I can score more goals than I did these last two seasons. It's all about growing and maturing in your position. 

"It's also about listening to what the manager is saying, taking pointers on and understanding the role that he wants from us."

Aribo played every minute of the 1-0 win over Leeds United at Wembley, securing passage back to the Premier League at the first attempt.

It was the Charlton academy graduate's second success at Wembley, having helped fire the Addicks to League One play-off final win in 2019.

He proudly declared: "It's my second time up there. Two for two at Wembley now, so very happy, very happy.

"Honestly, no words can actually describe it. It's what we've wanted to do all season. It's been our aim and it's honestly just amazing.

"It's amazing to say that we've got the job done. And to go up on the balcony at Wembley as well and just celebrate with 36,000 fans, what a moment."