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Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is preparing to hand Arthur Okonkwo his long-awaited debut for Nigeria, Footynaija reports.
This is as the Nigeria Football Federation has confirmed that the goalkeeper could feature as early as next month’s Unity Cup.
Okonkwo has just completed his international switch from England, where he previously played at youth level, to represent the Nigeria. The 24-year-old received FIFA approval earlier this week, clearing the final hurdle in a process that had gathered pace in recent months.
Now, attention has quickly turned to how soon he could be involved. The answer appears to be very soon.
An NFF official told ESPN that the goalkeeper’s attitude has played a key role in fast-tracking his integration into the squad.
“He was very enthusiastic about switching allegiance and playing for Nigeria, and that made things easier for us,” the official said.
“The coach (Eric Chelle) wants him, and would like to have him in the squad as soon as possible.”
Those words offer a clear insight into Chelle’s thinking. The Malian manager is rebuilding his squad and has made no secret of his desire to introduce fresh competition across all positions, including in goal.
Okonkwo arrives on the back of an impressive club season. He has made 42 appearances in all competitions and kept 10 clean sheets in 37 league matches, numbers that place him among the more consistent goalkeepers in the Championship. His performances have combined strong shot-stopping with calm distribution, qualities Chelle values highly.
Nigeria are set to begin their Unity Cup title defence against Zimbabwe on May 26 at The Valley in London, the home of Charlton Athletic. Having won the last edition after a penalty shootout victory over Jamaica, the Super Eagles will be keen to retain their crown.
It could be the perfect stage for Okonkwo to begin his international journey.
