Afcon 2023: Cyriel Dessers reacts to Super Eagles’ attacking competition

Rangers striker, Cyriel Dessers has admitted that the strength in attacking depth available to the Super Eagles is “absurd” but he remained optimistic to make Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

The 28-year-old has not been included in a Nigeria squad since last November, as an unused substitute for the friendly match against Portugal, while his most recent appearance was in September 2022.

He joined Rangers from Cremonese in August for a fee of about £4.3 million but has had a stuttering start to his career at Ibrox with five goals in 20 appearances for the Gers.

Although, Nigeria boasts of some of the best legs on the continent, especially in the attacking department. Despite all these quality attackers at Peseiro’s disposal, Dessers is not giving up on breaking into the fold.

“The last few times I was in the Nigeria pre-selection squad, but not in the final selection. If you look at the other strikers and the form that they are in, I can understand,” Dessers said per Daily Record.

“We have a few players competing to be the third or fourth striker and then it depends on form. The competition in Nigeria is absurd.

“I could have chosen to play for Belgium, but I am very happy with my choice.

“My first international goal, in front of a hundred thousand spectators against Mexico in Dallas, is a moment I will never forget.”

With Victor Osimhen a doubt for the 2023 AFCON Ivory Coast in January next year, Dessers could fancy his chances and be instrumental alongside Bundesliga revelation, Victor Boniface.