Damion Downs arrived at Southampton with huge expectations after his impressive form in the Bundesliga 2 with FC Koln. However, he was unable to replicate this form for the Saints, with no goals in 11 Championship games.
Downs has since been loaned back to German soccer's second tier at Hamburger SV. English soccer's second tier is stronger than most, but the Bundesliga 2 appears to be Downs' level.
The Saints are currently on the back of six winless games in the Championship. Their 4-0 loss to Middlesbrough gave the club a reality check. Southampton are currently 15th in the division, eight points off the playoff places, but only nine above the relegation zone. Recruitment is needed this January, but letting players go is also needed.
There will no doubt be more departures as Eckert looks to make a clear-out. This January, many Saints players are on thin ice. However, one player who may be having a detrimental effect should be sent packing.
Southampton should rid themselves of Joe Aribo
Joe Aribo helped Southampton to promotion from the Championship via the playoffs back in 2024. However, this season he has played just seven times in the league. He has also not been involved in any of the Saints' six games.
It is also telling that Aribo is currently not at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco with Nigeria. Aribo has 34 caps for Nigeria and was part of their side that got to the final of the last edition of AFCON. A return to his former club, Rangers, could be best for all parties. Scottish soccer is not on the same level as the Championship, so Aribo should still be able to thrive in that division. He could even be a part of a Scottish Premiership win this season.
Aribo has been at Southampton since 2022, and it is going to be difficult for a player of his stature not to get game time. This could have a detrimental effect on Eckert's roster. At just 29 years old, Aribo should be in his prime and helping the Southampton cause back in the second tier. However, a fresh start appears to be what the midfielder needs.
There are other players that Southampton fans would like to see the back of, such as Ryan Fraser and Samuel Edozie. However, Fraser's experience could be crucial in the second half of the season. Whilst Edozie still has potential, being just 22.