Juric backs Onuachu, admits fight for spots

Southampton manager Ivan Juric has backed Paul Onuachu to rediscover his scoring touch despite the Nigerian striker’s continued drought, but admits the forward faces competition for playing time, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Onuachu, who joined the Saints for €18m from Belgian side KRC Genk in January 2023, is yet to open his account for the club after 22 appearances across all competitions.

The 29-year-old was handed his second start of the season in Southampton’s 1-0 loss to West Ham United on Boxing Day, where he squandered multiple opportunities to break his duck. He was denied twice by goalkeeper Lukas Fabianski before missing additional chances in the second half.

Despite these struggles, Juric remains confident in the striker’s ability, pointing to his impressive record in Belgium and Turkey.

“Onuachu scored goals in Belgium every year, 20 goals. In Turkey, it’s the same thing. It’s not the same thing playing in Turkey and Belgium compared to England,” Juric told the Daily Echo.

“But it’s not one year that he scored 20 goals. I believe that he can do it. What I saw in these training sessions, he has his own characteristics. Long ball, keep the ball, the head is strong. It’s normal that he’s not the fastest player in the world, but in some games, I think he can do it well.”

However, the Saints boss suggested that Onuachu might not be an automatic starter, adding, “In other games, maybe it’s better to play with Archer or with another one (upfront).”

The striker arrived in English football with an impressive reputation, having netted 84 goals in 134 appearances for Genk. During a loan spell at Turkish side Trabzonspor last season, he maintained his scoring form with 17 goals and four assists in 31 appearances.

His performances in Turkey have attracted interest from several Super Lig clubs, with 16-time champions Beşiktaş reportedly tabling a three-year deal for the forward. The Black Eagles are believed to be leading the race for his signature despite competition from Trabzonspor.