Sports - Football - Nigerian Leagues
Updated: July 01, 2020

EXCLUSIVE: 'I've Long Expected Super Eagles Invitation' - NPFL Star Anaemena

By Ridwan Yusuf
July 01, 2020
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Super Eagles of Nigeria defender, Ifeanyi Anaemena, says he long-awaited call-up to the Nigeria national football team.

AllNews reports that Anaemena secured his maiden call-up to the Super Eagles in November 2019 after Russia-based Bryan Idowu withdrew from the squad for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixtures against Lesotho and Benin Republic due to passport issues.

The no-nonsense stopper was a key member of the Enyimba side that won the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) title in 2019 and has represented the home-based Super Eagles.

Although the 28-year-old played no part in the triumphs over the Crocodiles and the Squirrels, he relished the opportunity to share the dressing room with the Europe-based stars.

"Being invited to the Super Eagles was one of my exciting moments in football, Anaemena told AllNews exclusively.

"I've long expected it in my career.

"I appreciate God for the opportunity. and appreciate the coach, Gernot Rohr a lot for giving me such an opportunity.

"I thank God."

'I farm due to COVID-19-enforced break'

Furthermore, the former Giwa FC man revealed what he has been up to during the hiatus occasioned by the Coronavirus pandemic.

"I work on myself to make sure I keep fit and I get connected with my family.

"Sometimes, I go to my land, and I farm. Plant cassava and corn during the rainy season," the Nigerian league star stated.

Additionally, Anaemena is still firm on his desire to ply his trade outside the shores of Nigeria.

On the possible resumption of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), Anaemena is trusting the decision of the League Management Company (LMC), saying, "I believe whatever decision they reach."

Pictures credit: Modo Victor

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