John Noble hopeful of Super Eagles return after four-year absence

John Noble has signaled that his time with the Super Eagles may not be over, four years after his last appearance for Nigeria.

The Rivers United goalkeeper has made it clear that he remains eager to represent his country, putting behind him past controversies that once cast doubt on his international future.

Noble first earned a call-up in March 2021 after impressive performances with Enyimba, helping the two-time African champions dominate in the NPFL.

He was subsequently included in Nigeria’s 2021 AFCON squad under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, serving as backup to Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho. That tournament marked his final involvement with the national team, amid reports linking his exclusion to a dispute over a $25,000 AFCON bonus.

Speaking to Flashscore.com, Noble expressed his enduring ambition to return to the Super Eagles.

“Many keep asking if I have retired from international football, but I haven’t. I am still part of the team, and I haven’t given up on the chance to represent Nigeria again,” he said. “I truly miss wearing the green and white and being part of the camp and tournaments. Every game is a chance to prove myself and earn the attention of the national team selectors.”

While Noble has been away, Stanley Nwabali has become Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, with Uzoho and Amas Obasogie as backups. Commenting on Nwabali’s recent exit from Chippa United, Noble described the move as bold but expressed support for his friend’s next steps.

After stints abroad with Tabora United and Fountain Gate FC in Tanzania, Noble returned to Nigeria to join Rivers United. He cited the desire for regular playing time and a personal connection with the club as key reasons.

Competing with Osagie Onisodumeya for the starting spot, he remains focused on his club performances, aiming to attract the attention of national selectors once again. Noble is expected to feature when league leaders Rivers United face Bayelsa United in their next NPFL fixture.