In a thrilling encounter at Selhurst Park, 21-year-old defender Derrick Abu played a pivotal role in Southampton’s 2-1 extra-time victory over Crystal Palace, securing their place in the final. Abu not only set up Dom Ballard’s opening goal but also scored a stunning strike to seal the win. The young defender, who recently signed a contract with Southampton after leaving Chelsea, is determined to bring pride to the club and make a significant impact at St. Mary’s.
Derrick Abu said: “The boys have been really dedicated this season. They have really dug deep. It’s been tough for the club as a whole because we’ve got relegated. The 21s stuck together and the academy stuck together. We just want to make Southampton proud and bring some pride to the club. That’s the most important thing. I believe we’re the best in the country and we back ourselves that we’re going to make Southampton proud. It’s a massive achievement already. I think we have to give credit to ourselves and the staff but, like I said, it’s now down to one last push. Anything can happen. We just have to be ready, prepare well, get some rest and bring that trophy home to St Mary’s and Southampton.”
Abu’s decisive goal came in the seventh minute of extra time, a powerful shot from outside the area that found the top corner. Reflecting on the goal, Abu described the sequence of play that led to his memorable strike.
Derrick Abu explained: “The ball came up and I just headed it to Cam Bragg. And once he played it back to me, I had a little glance at the goal. I just thought to myself, you know what, let me just have a crack with this, and thank God it went into the top corner. It was a nice goal!”
Abu’s journey to Southampton has been eventful. Having been on trial at Crystal Palace earlier in the year, where he impressed by setting up a goal and scoring a winning penalty, Abu ultimately chose to join Southampton, signing a two-year contract. His decision was influenced by the club’s vision to strengthen their academy system.
Derrick Abu added: “You don’t really have to think too hard about it, you just have to do your best every day. I don’t really think too far ahead. I just have to play my football, make sure I’m fit and dedicated to the craft. The reason I play football is because growing up, it brought me joy. Whatever happens, happens. Anything can happen. We just have to see what me and the club want to do and see what the future holds.”
Beyond football, Abu is also a talented recording artist, performing under the name ‘Chosen’. His music career has seen collaborations with former Chelsea teammate Conor Gallagher and recognition from Southampton-born artist Craig David. Despite his musical pursuits, Abu remains focused on his football career and is eager to contribute to Southampton’s success.
Derrick Abu expressed: “Do you know what it is? Outside of football, I just find music just like therapy. It’s just like a little hobby I do and I enjoy it. Life’s changing is kind of like a representation of how football has influenced me and music plays a big part in my career as well.”
As Abu looks forward to the final, he remains optimistic about his future at Southampton and the impact he can make both on and off the pitch.
Derrick Abu concluded: “It’s been a really good experience at Southampton, here at the club, everyone’s treated me really, really nice. It’s a really good environment. The loan did me good and I feel like I’ve matured, definitely. I can’t wait to see what the future holds, honestly. I’m honestly so excited. Like I said, the next focus right now is to get to that final and win it but, like I said, we’ll see what the future holds.”
Abu’s journey and determination to succeed are a testament to his dedication to the sport and his club, as he aims to lead Southampton to a historic under-21 title.
