'Didn't train' - Southampton boss confirms Onuachu is doubtful to face Spurs but Ugochukwu is okay

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of his side's Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton manager Ivan Jurić provided a fitness update on two Nigerian players — Lesley Ugochukwu and Paul Onuachu.

Ugochukwu and Onuachu did not complete the last game against Crystal Palace, with the Chelsea loanee making way for Joe Aribo after 70 minutes, and he was joined on the bench by the Nigerian national teamer a minute before the end of the match.

Juric stated after the clash with the Eagles that Onuachu was substituted due to fatigue while Ugochukwu's substitution was injury-related.

After struggling for goals in the first half of the campaign, the former Racing Genk goal poacher has found his form in the business end of the season.

Onuachu's headed goal in the 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace marked his first back-to-back goals in the Premier League, taking his tally to four goals in his last nine top-flight appearances.

The Nigerian forward's availability for upcoming matches remains uncertain and he will undergo a fitness test before Sunday's trip to the English capital. 

In quotes relayed by the official website of the Saints, Juric stated: "Paul has a problem with his ankle, today he didn't train, but we will see tomorrow."

On a positive note, Ugochukwu is in good condition despite being substituted during the Crystal Palace game. 

"Manning is okay, Lesley is okay. Smallbone will be back in training tomorrow," Juric added. 

Southampton would be relegated from the Premier League this weekend if they lose to Spurs and Wolves win at Ipswich Town, increasing the gap between the two teams to 22 points, with only 21 points remaining to play for.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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