Former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has explained why he believes Victor Osimhen should be handed the captaincy of the Nigerian national team.
The armband became available earlier this month after William Troost-Ekong retired from international football, ending a decade-long spell with the Super Eagles. While Wilfred Ndidi, who previously deputised for Troost-Ekong, is widely expected to take over, Ighalo insists Osimhen is the better candidate.
“Victor Osimhen should be the next captain not because he is the oldest player in the team,” Ighalo told ESPN journalist Colin Udoh.
Photo Credit: Imago
Osimhen has scored 31 goals in 45 appearances and is likely to break Rashid Yekini all time most goal record which stands at 37 goals.
“There are older players like Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi, and Chidozie Awaziem. Osimhen is in his prime, and he dares to demand what he wants.”
Ighalo, who earned 37 caps and scored 16 goals for Nigeria, highlighted Osimhen’s leadership both on and off the pitch. He described Ndidi as “very calm” and reserved, while Osimhen is outspoken and fearless in speaking up for his teammates.
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“Ndidi is not the talking type. He’s calm, but Osimhen rallies the players and makes sure everyone is focused. Being a captain is not an easy job, your neck is always on the line, and the captain must represent the team to the NFF and beyond. Osimhen has the character to do that,” Ighalo added.
Photo Credit: Imago
He also pointed out that Osimhen’s status as Nigeria’s biggest star gives him authority in the dressing room.
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“The boys won’t look down on him because he’s performing at the highest level. He leads by example running, fighting, and giving everything on the pitch and others follow suit.”
