Simon Rusk confirms that Joe Aribo, despite being Southampton's best midfielder alongside Mateus Fernandes, ranks below Flynn Downes and Lesley Ugochukwu in his ranks.
Like it or not, but the shift of plans Southampton has seen this season has felt ridiculous. Isn't it strange that just some time ago, we rooted for Simon Rusk's return in Juric's place, under whom we struggle now?
Now, agreed, the stage at which Rusk arrived, it was impossible to improve quickly. But sadly, the manager hasn't kept his word for what was at least expected of him.
If you are still bewildered, just look at the manager's weird squad planning. Though brought in to steer Southampton ahead of Juric's mistakes, Rusk has further aggravated the issue.
While sidelining Sugawara and Welington can still be overlooked, just explain why Rusk has benched Joe Aribo altogether?
Notably, having missed just a rare game initially this season, Aribo has not played at all under Rusk in his four games in charge. And notably, that's when Aribo, who has scored goals and contributed both in midfield control and defensive duties, has been one of the best Saints this season.
Still, if this mighty blunder wasn't enough to frustrate the St. Mary's faithful, Rusk's explanation for Aribo's absence has only made matters worse.
Simon Rusk defends himself over Joe Aribo's lineup exclusion
As quoted by the Daily Echo, talking of Aribo's case, Rusk said: "He hasn't quite fitted for one reason or another so far. I think Flynn and Lesley in the midfield two have, by and large, for the last three or four games done really well for us, so of course that makes it difficult."
Now, not taking anything from Flynn Downes or Lesley Ugochukwu, still prioritising either of them over Joe Aribo feels like a snub.
In fact, the majority of Southampton supporters, who are aware of Aribo's heroics, would even agree that his not playing is the club's loss, not his.
Honestly, now it feels like the sooner we finish this tumultuous season, the better. Seems like only a new manager can fix Southampton's lack of squad vision.