Southampton: Obafemi makes Ireland debut versus Hojbjerg

Southampton forward Michael Obafemi made his Republic of Ireland debut against Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Denmark last night.

The 18-year-old was introduced as a substitute with around ten minutes remaining but the Nations League tie would eventually end 0-0.

After confirming his allegiance to Ireland recently, this moment will have been another huge step in his progression and a proud moment for his family

Saints midfielder Hojbjerg played the full 90 minutes for Denmark and collected his 23rd international cap.

The result ultimately didn’t matter as Ireland finished bottom of group B4 and are relegated to league C for the next competition in 2020, whilst Denmark are promoted to league A.

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Mohamed Elyounoussi was also in international action last night as Norway travelled to face Cyprus away from home.

It proved to be a mixed evening for the Saints winger as an Ola Kamara brace produced a 2-0 win for the Norwegians, but Elyounoussi would be sent off in the 90th minute after two bookable offences.

This game saw a superb Nations League campaign come to an end for Norway as they finished top of group C3 and will be promoted to league B for the next competition.

All three players will now return to England to prepare for Saints’ crucial Premier League clash with Fulham at the weekend.

The match sees 20th face 17th and a win for either side would surely provide a huge boost for survival hopes going into the Christmas period.

Former Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri was appointed as the new boss at Craven Cottage during the international break after the club chose to replace Slavisa Jokanovic.

Whilst Hojbjerg is likely to retain his place in Mark Hughes’ starting line-up, both Elyounoussi and Obafemi may have to settle for impact roles off the bench.

The club will not want to push Obafemi too hard in order to help his steady progression, whilst the form of Manolo Gabbiadini against Watford could see him keep his place over Elyounoussi.