Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo registered an assist in Southampton's 2-3 defeat to Ipswich Town at Portman Road Stadium on Monday.
Leif Davis gave the hosts the lead in the 13th minute, but his earlier strike was cancelled out by Southampton's Che Adams, who was assisted by Aribo a minute later. Substitute Nathan Broadhead leveled for the home side in the 68th minute, with Jeremy Sarmiento securing the winner in added time.
Adam Armstrong's goal gave the away side the lead and shifted the momentum in their favour. The 27-year-old has continued to shine for his club since his return to Southampton from the Africa Cup of Nations.
However, Aribo was replaced by Joe Rothwell in 82nd minute.
In spite of their loss, Southampton will maintain their position in the league table with 74 points after playing 38 games.
They currently trail joint league leaders Ipswich Town by 13 points and second-placed Leicester City by 10 points, with two games in hand.
Joe Aribo's resurgent form
Before the Africa Cup of Nations, Aribo struggled for playing time to display his talent, but his time with the Super Eagles appears to have revitalised him.
He has scored three goals and provided two assists in 29 appearances across all competitions for the Saints in the current campaign.
Can Aribo help Southampton's promotion bid?
As Southampton finds themselves in fourth place on the Championship table, the question arises: can the Nigeria international be the catalyst for their promotion aspirations?
Currently trailing joint league leaders Ipswich Town by 13 points and Leicester City by 10 points, with two games in hand, Southampton's promotion hopes hang in the balance.
In his 28 appearances in the Championship this season, the midfielder boasts of three goals and two assists. The road to promotion is fraught with challenges, and Southampton will need collective effort and determination from the entire squad.
Aribo's individual brilliance must be complemented by cohesive teamwork and solid performances across all areas of the pitch.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Joe Aribo and Southampton as they strive to achieve their goal of returning to the Premier League.
It's important to note that the top two teams will earn automatic promotion to the Premier League, while the third to sixth-placed teams will participate in a promotion playoff to determine the final promotion spot.
