Mubarak Suleiman says club form will determine Super Eagles future

Slavia Prague midfielder Mubarak Suleiman says his performances, rather than simply being part of the squad, will determine whether he remains with the Super Eagles.

The teenager was invited to Nigeria’s senior national team after an impressive start to the season with the Czech Republic outfit. He was an unused substitute as the Super Eagles beat Tanzania 3-1 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday.

Speaking to Dangolo Way, Suleiman said his progress had been built on personal determination and a willingness to compete for his opportunity.

“If you did not fight for yourself, I don’t think you will have what you want,” he said. “I fought for myself and that is what brought me to where I am today.”

Suleiman also identified consistent performances as the key to earning further opportunities with Nigeria. He said being selected once would not, on its own, guarantee his continued involvement with the national team.

“What will keep me here is my performance, not only you went out with the Super Eagles,” he added.

The midfielder believes his displays for Slavia Prague were the reason he came to the attention of the national-team management, including head coach Eric Chelle and other officials.

“What you’re doing in your club that’s what attracted the officials like the coach and everybody in the board,” Suleiman said.

He has made 11 appearances in all competitions this campaign, scoring five goals and providing three assists.

Suleiman will now aim to impress Chelle in training and secure another invitation to the Super Eagles.