Southampton manager, Russel Martin says the club won’t stop Nigeria international, Joe Aribo from joining his compatriots in Nigeria for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 27-year-old who has revived his career at the club, is expected to be named in Super Eagles final squad for the AFCON finals next year.
The Nigerian national football team will open camp for the competition in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on January 1. Aribo will be away for a month if the Super Eagles go all the way to the final at the competition.
Martin told Daily Echo that it is important to allow Aribo and other African players in his team represent their country in the African tournament.
“We can’t stop anyone. You want them to go there fit and come back fit. Joe needs to keep playing, now he has been playing and I’m sure he will get into their squad.
“He has been a mainstay in their squad for quite a while. They go with everyone’s best wishes, as you want them to do well,” he said.
Cote d’Ivoire will host the 2023 AFCON from January 13 to February 11, 2024.
