2023 AFCON Qualifiers: Super Eagles’ return excites Taiwo Awoniyi 

By Wale Mustapha

Taiwo Awoniyi revealed his excitement for a privileged return to Nigeria national team for the African Cup of Nations, AFCON qualifiers against Sierra Leone in Monrovia.

Coach Jose Peseiro had earlier called up 23 players for the match with Awoniyi who had an excellent last phase of the season with Nottingham Forest in the mix for Leone Stars clash in the Matchday Five of the qualifiers next Monday.

Awoniyi who is now in camp with the Super Eagles said every players should see national team call up as privilege and must give their all when given the chance to play.

“It’s a great privilege for any player, it’s an honour, and it should not be taken for granted,” he told Soccernet.ng.

“I’m very happy I was invited, I am proud and overjoyed as well. However, the Super Eagles is not a home for everybody, you can’t be there forever because it is not for one player.

“You may be there today and not be there tomorrow. But the main thing is that you should put in your best when you get the opportunity.

“Playing for your country is a pride for any player, and if you look at the Premier League, the Bundesliga, the Laliga, and other leagues, we have a lot of Nigerian players doing well.

“When they make the lists, Nigerians would always ask why a certain player is there on it. Nigerians would always have something to say, that is to show how big the Nation is in terms of talent.

“So I tell myself that getting the call up does not mean I should take it for granted. I’m happy I’m there, but I believe it’s a big honour and privilege.”