Teenager Oyekunle travelled with the squad to Bristol City on Tuesday and warmed up with the group ahead of a 3-1 defeat.
The 18 year old holds the record for the most goals in the history of the Under-18 Premier League (38) and has already struck five Premier League 2 goals this season.
“That’s why he’s there. I think we’d be stupid to look past it. We’ve had him in training for the last three and a half weeks, and he’s been good,” said Still.
Goal! Nick Oyekunle makes it 2-0 before half time. Finds himself in a pocket of space amongst a crowded box and drives low across goal to double his side’s lead. Been all Saints but not a lot by way of clear chances, they’re taken their two. #SaintsFC pic.twitter.com/SGgfrTFmBv
— Alfie House (@AlfieHouseEcho) October 3, 2025
“He’s sharp, he’s quick, he knows where the goal is. He’ll get his chance, hopefully sooner rather than later. But you can’t drop him in and hope for the best.
“You can’t expect him to score a hat-trick in his first game. He’s had to adapt to the intensity of our training.
“He’s done really well, so he deserves to be with the group and in the squad, and that’s what we’ve done. I think he’s getting close to game time.
“He’s getting close to looking like someone who could have an impact in the Championship and in the team.
“I don’t care how old you are or how young you are or how much you cost or how much you earn or whatever. If you’re a good player and you can help the team, then go out and do it.”
Nick Oyekunle celebrating one of his many goals for Saint under-18s. (Image: Craig Hobbs/Southampton FC)
Saints extended Oyekunle’s contract until 2027 after he scored 27 goals in 23 league matches for the under-18s last season.
Speaking to the Daily Echo earlier this month, he said: “Last season was good for me. I had a lot of confidence, I was delivering every week, and I just hope to do the same again.
“That record is just a milestone for me. I ticked off the box, and hopefully I can do the same in the 21s. Hopefully, if I get to the first team, it will be the same.
“For me, it’s just about always executing at the highest level. First in the 18s, now in the 21s, and later in the first team. I’m comfortable and happy.
“The club have obviously invested in me and now it’s just time for me to work. The head coach (Tonda Eckert) obviously believes in us, and he believes in me.”