Southampton striker Tella given jersey number previously worn by Luke Shaw

Published: August 14, 2021

English Premier League side Southampton announced their squad numbers on Saturday morning ahead of their season opener against Everton at Goodison Park.

Super Eagles target Nathan Tella has retained the number he wore in 2020-2021, meaning the striker will be wearing 23 on the back of his jersey again this term.

Southampton's number 23 jersey was previously worn by the likes of Luke Shaw, Pierre-Emile Höjbjerg and Fraser Forster.

One-cap Republic of Ireland international Michael Obafemi who can switch eligibility to Nigeria as from November 20, 2021 has been given a squad number amid speculation surrounding his future at St Mary's.

Obafemi, whose last appearance for his country of birth came in a UEFA Nations League match vs Denmark on November 19, 2018, has also kept his squad number he wore last season, 14.

Dream Team VIII hopeful Oludare Olufunwa has not been listed among the first teamers handed jersey numbers.

Olufunwa and Obafemi were born after after 1 January 2000 and the two homegrown players will be registered on Southampton's Premier League roster as U21 players.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : southamptonfc.com

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