New Super Eagles Invitee Sodiq Ismail Grateful After Getting His First Call-Up

Ismail, capable of playing at right-back and right wing-back, recorded 18 assists in the NPFL last year, and this season, has registered 13, the most in the league so far.

Newly invited Super Eagles defender, Sodiq Ismail has expressed gratitude over his maiden call-up to the Nigerian Football team, Soccernet.ng reports.

Ismail, who can play at both right-back and right wing-back, recorded 18 assists in the NPFL last year, and this season, has registered 13, the most in the league so far.

In Ola Aina’s absence, Sadiq was called up to the national team by Finidi George, to be a part of the 23-man squad to face South Africa and Benin Republic in the Super Eagles’ upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Speaking with the NFF, the right-back shared his thoughts of his first invite to train with the national team, alongside how his club performances impacted the decision.

“It’s a privilege to be with senior, top players. I hope to learn a few things from them. Well, I can’t say much about my club performance because I didn’t expect a call-up to the national team. So I have to do my best and make the best of my stay here,” the defender said.

Sodiq, alongside Olorunleke Ojo and Obinna Kenneth Igboke, were the trio of home-based players selected by Finidi George for the qualifiers. The Remo Stars shared his thoughts on how they intend to perform if they’re needed.

“We’re not under pressure, because we will win by God’s grace. If I’m called upon, I will be ready to give my all. We will prove ourselves if we have the chance. We will get the qualification for the World Cup,” Ismail Sodiq added.

Nigeria will play against South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo before they travel to Ivory Coast to face Benin Republic three days later.