Returning Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye had explained the reason behind his decision to shun a call up to the senior national team of Nigeria for the AFCON, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
Okoye declined an invitation to be a part of the team for the tournament, where Nigeria finished third but he is back in the team for the upcoming friendly tournament in Turkey.
Super Eagles will be up against Iran on Friday before taking on Jordan in their final game of the tournament on Tuesday. Head coach Eric Chelle is expected to play Okoye in at least one of the games.
Explaining his absence in an interview with German media outlet Kicker, the Udinese goalkeeper explained that it was important for him to play especially after missing two months with Udinese due to a ban that was betting related.
In his words he told Chelle that since he was not Nigeria’s first choice, it will be good for him to stay back at Udinese and build his fitness, sharpness and also pay the club back for the support during his travails.
Speaking further he lamented the fact that the tournament is in the middle of the season, saying a big tournament like the AFCON should be in the summer.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
