Paul Onuachu says he is ready to help Southampton avoid relegation

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu who secured his “dream” move to the Premier League from KRC Genk is optimistic that he can help Southampton escape relegation this season.

The Nigerian was signed for €18 million in January and featured in his first game when he replaced Mohamed Elyounoussi.

“I’m very motivated, it’s a huge challenge,” he told the club’s official website.

“Coming here we are last on the table and everybody is working to really try to leave the relegation zone.

“It’s a huge challenge, not just for me but for everybody in the team. I’m going to give it all if I have the chance to play, and try to help the team to survive.”

Speaking on his move to the Premier League after scoring so many goals in the Belgian Pro League and setting new records, Onuachu said it’s a “dream” move to finally play in the “biggest league in the world.”

“I think it had to be now or never” Onuachu said of his dream move to England.

“I think I’m at the right age and I think I had to take this challenge and test myself, to impact my team. Hopefully we do something great together.

“It’s a decision I took because coming to Southampton and playing in the Premier League, the best league in the world, I’m coming to really impact my own team – it’s something big for me in my career.

“I have always followed the Premier League, watching it week in week out, seeing the games. It’s a whole different ball game, the intensity, the duels.

“Every player dreams of playing in the Premier League, and of course l’m happy to be here. I think I have the physique, I have the height, I have the size. Let the battle begin.

“Of course it helps a lot, having this height. I’m in there with my height to make a difference in the box, so I think that’s why God gave me this height! If I have the right balls in the box, of course you can see my height will tell.”

The 28-year-old acknowledged that he will be receiving services from one of the most precise players, James Ward Prowse.

“James (Ward-Prowse) is one of the best in the league with his service and his kick, so of course l’m happy to be coming here with someone like him. I think it’s going to really help the team and me a lot.”