Onuachu shares what Southampton manager told him before scoring his first goal in English football

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu expressed his gratitude to the club's loyal supporters after scoring his first goal for the team in a 3-2 defeat to Nottingham Forest.

Although the result left much to be desired, Onuachu was visibly pleased to break his goal-scoring duck and took the opportunity to dedicate the moment to the fans who have shown unwavering support since his arrival two years ago.

Onuachu entered the fray on 58 minutes, with Saints trailing 3-0, and played a crucial role in a spirited comeback effort.

His header from a Mateus Fernandes corner in added time capped a remarkable personal moment, but it was the striker's earlier contribution in setting up the team's first goal that made his impact truly felt.

He provided an excellent knock-down to fellow substitute Lesley Ugochukwu, whose shot deflected off Jan Bednarek and into the net.

Reflecting on manager Ivan Jurić's message just before he entered the game as a substitute, Onuachu told Southampton's official website: "For me, when I came on, he just said ‘Paul, go fight, try to keep the ball’ and I just did what he asked me.

"Of course, the whole team in the second half, they were full of energy, Lesley was brilliant again, an amazing player to watch.

"It was disappointing that we lose, but of course as a striker you have confidence that you get the first goal for Saints and I think the fans will be happy for me."

The striker’s words reflect a positive mindset in the face of adversity, with Onuachu confident that Southampton can continue to compete and fight for a higher position despite their current struggles in the Premier League.

The FC Ebedei product logged 828 minutes spread across twenty-six matches in all competitions before scoring his first goal in English football. 

Wale Adejumo

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