Southampton boss Russel Martin has lauded Paul Onuachu as a “different beast” following a remarkable transformation in the Nigerian forward's confidence and performance.
Onuachu has already returned to Southampton and made an appearance in their last preseason match against Getafe on Friday at the St. Mary's Stadium.
This comes after an impressive loan spell with Turkish side Trabzonspor, where he scored 21 goals in 25 matches, including 17 goals and four assists despite a month-and-a-half injury layoff.
The burly Nigerian forward joined Southampton in February 2023 from Belgian side Genk on a three-and-a-half-year deal.
However, his initial spell with the Saints was disappointing, as he failed to score in 12 league appearances during a season that ended with the club's relegation to the Championship.
Russel Martin highlights Onuachu's evolution: From confidence boost to a ‘different beast'
The Saints manager in an interview highlighted Onuachu's impressive evolution since his return to Southampton.
“I just think he’s different to what we have. He’s trained really, really well.” Martin said as per Daily Echo.
“He’s a different Paul to the one I came across last season in terms of confidence. I think the last pre-season was so difficult for so many of them. They hadn’t had a chance in the Premier League or they’d come in January and not really taken to it that well. This summer he’s a different beast, and whilst he’s here, same as Kyle Walker-Peters, we will try and utilise him.”
Onuachu was anticipated to join Trabzonspor on a permanent basis; however, the Turkish club was unable to meet Southampton's asking price of €12 million (£10.3 million).
Reportedly, Trabzonspor's summer budget constraints prevented them from affording the required figure.
