“I will likely be dissatisfied if I don’t make Nigeria’s AFCON squad”

The Tremendous Eagles squad for the AFCON will likely be launched in a couple of weeks, and Akpoguma is optimistic about his probabilities

Hoffenheim defender Kevin Akpoguma admits that making Nigeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations squad will likely be powerful however provides that he can be dissatisfied if he doesn’t get an invitation, Soccernet.ng stories.

Nigeria’s Tremendous Eagles journey to Ivory Coast subsequent yr for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, and they are going to be trying to declare a fourth title.

A variety of followers have excessive expectations of the Tremendous Eagles because of the abundance of high quality within the Tremendous Eagles squad. Nigeria have among the gamers on the continent, and coach Jose Peseiro would have his work minimize out when selecting his 23-man squad.

Nonetheless, there are some gamers who’re assured of a spot due to their high quality and achievements. Nevertheless, there are different stars whose chances are high within the stability.

A kind of gamers is Akpoguma. The German-born defender has not been invited to the Tremendous Eagles squad since June this yr, as Peseiro has opted for different center-backs.

The 28-year-old has no grudges nonetheless, as he believes that Peseiro’s determination to omit him from Nigeria’s squad has been primarily for tactical causes. Nonetheless, he’s hopeful that regardless of the variety of gamers competing for his place, he will get a spot in Nigeria’s squad.

“I don’t know[why I’ve not gotten a Super Eagles invitation recently], I believe there are causes, however I don’t assume they’re private causes,” Akpoguma informed Soccernet.ng.

“If the coach invitations me, I’ll include pleasure and honour. I’ll be proud if I get an invite from Nigeria. However I believe it’s one thing about techniques, as a result of there are numerous gamers who’re taking part in in my place like Semi Ajayi and Kenneth Omeruo who may be very skilled.

“There may be additionally Chidozie, who’s skilled taking part in in Africa. I believe these are the the explanation why the coach is saying I must be higher there.”

Akpoguma has not precisely impressed a lot confidence since he began taking part in for Nigeria. He performed for Germany at youth stage, and switching to the African terrain has not been simple for him. Akpoguma understands this, however he insists that he’ll assist the crew whether or not he makes the minimize or not.

“Its a giant distinction  taking part in soccer in Europe and for the nationwide crew. You see the gamers we’ve, there may be numerous strain from the followers and the nation. They see a vibrant future for all our gamers. As a result of they see the likes of Victor Osimhen and Boniface and what they’re doing at their golf equipment.

“So, I believe the coach is simply looking for the crew and squad that may match into the strain exterior of the pitch. If there’s no invitation, I will likely be dissatisfied, however all people is aware of that whether or not I’m there or not, I’ll give my 100% as a result of we’re all Nigerians. I hope that Nigeria will go a good distance,” Akpoguma added.