Glasgow Rangers midfielder Joe Aribo says making the decision to represent Nigeria was an easy one for him, reports Completesports.com.
Aribo, 23, was born in London and is eligible to represent England but instead opted to don the green and white colours of Nigeria.
The former Charlton Athletic player has been handed his maiden invitation to the Super Eagles for the September 10 friendly against Ukraine at the Dnipro Arena, Kyiv, by head coach Gernot Rohr.
“From when I was young I knew I wanted to play for Nigeria. So I was just happy to get the call-up and it was the best decision I made really,” Aribo told ESPN.
Aribo however admits that he expects nerves when he meet his international teammates ahead of the Ukraine game.
“I will be nervous until I get comfortable around the rest of the squad and build friendships,” he admitted.
Aribo however is confident about the skill set he would bring to the Super Eagles side that has lacked quality midfielders in recent years.
“It is not like there aren’t people who are doing it already, but I can bring energy into the team, getting the ball from deep and driving forward to get us up the pitch,” he added.
“I just love to be involved in and around the pitch and the position where you get most touches is centre midfield. That is where you can express yourself and that is why I love playing there.”
By Adeboye Amosu
5 Comments
Joe ARI-BALL, the NIGERIA STALLION. Welcome aboard. Your talent is undisputed. The fans are all rooting for you. We don’t expect you to have a flawless debut. There will likely be mistakes and a learning curve. Just relax, play your game, and be open to learning new things. All the best!
Nice one you no go regret just focus and play with no fears or impression!
The best for Nigeria now is to invite you and the best for your flourishing career now is to accept playing for Nigeria. No qualms!
I am very sure that you are going to make our midfield more stronger than ever and reduce the burden of goals scoring on our attackers’ shoulders as I am happy that super eagles SUCCESSORS ARE FAR BETTER THAN OUR PREDECESSORS THESE DAYS
ARI-BALL GBA welcome on board!
One of the midfielders that are blessed with the qualities the team currently lack in the CM position, another is ovie ejaria.
Aribo, playing for the super eagles will make you are major international star. The beginning maybe tough but in due time you will stake a claim in the team because your qualities are not in doubt.
This new adventure is will catapult you to the top for sure. Shine on boy!
Go and make me proud Aribo. Don’t make me regret that I recommended you to Nigerians. I knew what you capable of and always proud of you my son Aribo. God bless Nigeria!!!