Nigerian Striker Scores In First Start For Southampton U23, Akpom Returning To Match Fitness

Promising Nigerian striker Jonathan Afolabi scored in his first start for Southampton U23s in their 3-1 loss to Arsenal in Premier League 2 at Staplewood Training Ground on Monday night.

The 17-year-old gave the Saints the lead in the 40th minute when he rifled in from a corner, only for Mavididi to restore parity in the 58th minute, before two late goals secured a win for the Gunners.

Young Nigerian striker Chuba Akpom lasted 76 minutes on the pitch in his second game since recovering from a back injury that had kept him out of action for three months.

Irish-born Afolabi penned a two-year scholarship with Southampton last summer after impressing in the Milk Cup.

In their next fixture, Arsenal host Chelsea while Southampton visit Tottenham Hotspur.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : southamptonfc.com