Derrick Abu: Southampton confirm departure of tri-national fullback, once a Golden Eaglets hopeful

With a statement on the official website, relegated Premier League club Southampton have confirmed the departure of tri-national fullback Derrick Abu.

The Chelsea product, who is eligible to represent Nigeria, England and Germany at international level, leaves the South Coast club with zero appearances for the first team.

While at Cobham, Abu declared his availability for selection ahead of Nigeria's campaign at the 2019 Fifa U17 World Cup.

However, he was ultimately left out of the travelling squad to Brazil after failing to establish contact with the Nigeria Football Federation and then-head coach Manu Garba. 

The Saints informed that Abu is among four academy players on pro deals leaving this summer, alongside Josh Lett, Josh McNamara and Lewis Payne.

The 21-year-old will be fondly remembered by Southampton supporters for netting the decisive goal against Crystal Palace in last month’s Premier League 2 playoff semifinal.

In search of first team football, Abu spent the second half of the 2023-2024 campaign at Harrogate Town, where he made fourteen appearances in League Two.

Including the playoff fixtures, the German-born right-back featured in 20 Premier League 2 matches during his final season at Southampton, directly participating in seven goals.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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