Onazi ignores critics, insists he has something to offer

Midfielder Ogenyi Onazi insists he still has a lot to give the Nigerian Super Eagles.

Super Eagles Technical Adviser Austin Eguaveon placed Onazi on alert ahead of the Super Eagles’ forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Ghana later this month.

His inclusion, however, provoked a negative reaction from the Nigerian football community, with many supporters criticizing Eguavoen for his choice.

The former Lazio and Trabzonspor midfielder stated that he still has a lot to give the squad and that where he is now playing has nothing to do with his skills.

“It’s not a surprise for me because I’m still playing and I’m ready to play anytime and when it comes to the national team, I’m always at the service of the nation – to always give my best for the country.

“Personally, I don’t listen to what they write online. I’m still on the reserve list, not yet on the main list so we can’t tell what’s going to happen. Let’s keep it that way and then we’ll see what’s going to happen,” he told Omasport.

“As far as I’m concerned, football in this present situation now – it doesn’t matter if you’re playing in Manchester United or you’re playing in Kazakhstan or wherever. You’re not taking your club to go and play in the national team, you’re taking your individual skill and ability to join with your fellow players and make a team,”

“During my time at the national team, I never had a problem with anybody. I’ve always been a person in the middle – between the young and the old – to make them integrate into the team. When I’m on the pitch, I give my all until I’m almost dead,” he ended.