One of the surprise name on the list of the Super Eagles for the friendly game against Ukraine is that of Rangers of Scotland midfielder Joe Aribo.
Aribo’s inclusion came as a shock to many considering the fact that he hasn’t been mentioned previously as one of the players the coach is monitoring ahead of the friendly game against Ukraine.
Many expected QPR Ebere Eze to get the nod but it’s the 23 year old former Charlton man that Rohr has decided to hand the job of filling the vacuum created by the exit of captain John Obi Mikel following his retirement from international football.
Here’s a low down on the midfielder who recently turned 23 years old and has been one of the shining stars for Rangers in the Scottish Premier League (SPL) and also the Europa League.
1. Aribo was born in London on the 21st of July 1996 meaning he is eligible to represent England but at no time was he called up to any of their national teams. It means he won’t be needing any clearance from FIFA before playing for Nigeria.
2. He started his career for semi-professional side Staines Town playing in the Isthmian League South Central division.
3. Charlton spotted him and invited him for trial and after impressing he was handed a four year deal. The then 18 year old Aribo wasted no time in making his mark at the club.
4. He predominantly plays with his left foot and despite playing as a deep lying midfielder he proved during his time with Charlton that he can also weigh in his own fair share of goals with 11 goals in 86 appearances at the club including six last season.
5. Signed on a free transfer by Rangers, he was linked to a host of club after deciding not to extend his contract at Charlton. Arsenal were among the club he was linked to in the summer before his move to Scotland.
6. At Rangers he has scored three goals from five games in the Europa League qualifiers and so far hasn’t missed a single minute of action for the club. Manager Steven Gerrard once referred to him as one player he can’t drop in his name.
