Southampton loan unsettled Nigerian forward to Belgium

Published on by Toyosi Afolayan, updated on

Southampton forward Samuel Edozie has completed a season-long loan move to Belgian giants RSC Anderlecht following a failed deadline-day transfer to Glasgow Rangers.

The 21-year-old Anglo-Nigerian winger, who played a pivotal role in Southampton's promotion back to the Premier League, was often left on the bench by manager Martin Russell. Despite contributing six goals and three assists last season, Edozie started just 16 matches in the Championship.

This season, Edozie has struggled for consistent game time, making three appearances but starting only once in the 5-3 Carabao Cup victory over Cardiff City. Seeking more regular playing time, the talented forward almost joined Rangers in a late move that collapsed on deadline day. Anderlecht stepped in, securing his services on loan to bolster their attacking options for the Jupiler Pro League campaign.

Anderlecht, aiming to bounce back after missing out on the Belgian title to Royal Antwerp last season, see Edozie’s versatility as a key asset. 

Is Samuel Edozie still eligible for Nigeria?

The former Manchester City and Millwall youth player can operate across the front line or in midfield, giving head coach Brian Riemer additional options.

Samuel Edozie becomes Anderlecht’s sixth summer signing, joining the likes of Brentford defender Zanka, Aston Villa loanee Leander Dendoncker, and others in the club’s push for silverware.

Southampton loan unsettled Nigerian forward to Belgium
Photo by IMAGO

Edozie was born in England to a Nigerian father and an English mother. He has represented England at youth level. He made his debut for the England U19s in 2021 and later scored for the U20s in 2022.

Despite his international experience with England, the winger remains eligible to represent the Super Eagles.

Avatar photo
Toyosi Afolayan

Toyosi Afolayan is a sports journalist who breathes life into the games we love. He loves to combine insightful analysis with historical background, creating a richer understanding of sports. Afolayan's expertise ranges from captivating narratives to live broadcasts, captivating audiences across platforms like Ojbsport, AllNigeriaSoccer, TVC Entertainment, Bounce Networks, Kwara TV, ICIR, EaglesTracker, and NFF TV. His background in History and International Studies adds depth, revealing the connections between sports, politics, and national identity.