October 3, 2025<\/a>\n <\/p>\n\n \u201cHe’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.\n<\/p>\n
\n “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.\n<\/p>\n
\n “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.\n<\/p>\n
\n “He’s getting close to looking like someone who could have an impact in the Championship and in the team.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n
\n \u201cI 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.”\n<\/p>\n
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Nick Oyekunle celebrating one of his many goals for Saint under-18s. (Image: Craig Hobbs\/Southampton FC)\n<\/p>\n
\n Saints extended Oyekunle’s contract until 2027 after he scored 27 goals in 23 league matches for the under-18s last season.\n<\/p>\n
\n 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.\n<\/p>\n
\n “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.\n<\/p>\n
\n “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.\n<\/p>\n
\n “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.”\n<\/p>\n