Nigeria senior international Ola Aina has taken a swipe at the level of competition and players development when they play in the English Championship, Owngoalnigeria.com reports.
Aina shunned a host of Championship teams to join Italian Serie A side Torino on loan, and the 22 year old says he is enjoying his time in Italy and rate the level of playing in the Serie A, a lot higher than when he played on loan at English Championship teams in the past.
He has cemented a spot in the starting line up of Torino and although language is still part of the barriers he is facing in Italy, he did confirmed in an interview with Forza Italian Football that he has setteld down to life in Italy.
On the pitch, the demands of picking up points against quality teams and opposition have also improved his game according to the defender, who is expected to feature for Nigeria when they play Libya in back to back AFCON 2019 Qualifiers games in two weeks time.
“I’ve been enjoying it so far,” Aina told Forza Italian Football. “I’m enjoying training and the games, and all the challenges as there are some top sides here. I’m settling in just fine. The difference is a lot. The level is a lot higher, the concentration and tactical side of things are a lot higher than the Championship. For me, that is what is key for me this season.
“Right now, the squad are just focusing on each other, and to take each match as it comes. We want to play good football and get as much points as possible and win games. So if we can focus on this, then who knows.”
Michael James
