Russell Martin has made a surprise claim about Paul Onuachu after a rare cameo in the 0-0 draw against Getafe on Saturday.
The Southampton starting line-up against the La Liga opposition is expected to be the same XI that Russell Martin plans to play against Newcastle United in the Premier League opener next weekend.
The Saints boss still wants further reinforcements in attack despite the arrival of Ben Brereton Diaz, but even if they were to be signed in the next week it is unlikely they would be thrown into the side so soon.
The goalless draw with Getafe to round off pre-season is not one that will live long in the memory for any of those in attendance, with a couple of wasted Adam Armstrong opportunities the only real moments of note from a Saints perspective.
However, there was a surprise appearance for want-away striker Paul Onuachu and Martin has now opened the door for the Nigerian to play a part if he is to stay at Southampton.
Russell Martin gives Paul Onuachu Southampton opportunity amid transfer interest
Southampton spent £18 million to sign the 6ft 8ins Onuachu on transfer deadline day in January 2023.
However, the Nigerian was handed few opportunities to impress with the more direct Nathan Jones sacked days after his arrival and Ruben Selles barely using the forward.
A season on loan at Trabzonspor last season showed his talents, with Onuachu scoring 17 goals and providing four assists in 25 games.
This has led to the Turkish side trying to sign the 30-year-old – and the player is keen on the move – but as yet they are yet to make an offer Southampton would give any serious consideration to.
With the possibility that the club’s valuation is not met for Onuachu this summer, Martin brought him in from the cold to play the last 17 minutes on Saturday.
It was difficult for the gangly striker to show his qualities in a game that was fizzling out, but last season’s form showed he can be an effective player if used properly.
Martin keen to ‘utilise’ Onuachu whilst he is still at Southampton
Onuachu is yet to score a goal for the Saints having been signed with the hopes of being the man to fire the club to safety in a dismal 2022/23 season.
So far, his signing has proven an expensive mistake and an exit remains the most likely outcome this summer.
However, Martin suggest post-match that he is an asset the Southampton boss will use whilst he is still at the club, saying: “I just think he’s different to what we have. He’s trained really, really 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.
“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.”