Nigeria star Kelechi Iheanacho reflects on Super Eagles return

Nigeria international Kelechi Iheanacho has opened up about his emotional return to Super Eagles after being recalled by head coach Eric Chelle for Tuesday’s international friendly against Russia.

The 30-year-old striker has been a part of Nigeria’s football system from a young age and says representing the Super Eagles remains a source of immense pride and passion for him.

Iheanacho reflected on his long journey through the national youth teams before eventually becoming a senior international, stressing that his commitment to Nigeria has never been driven by individuals or circumstances.

“I’ve been in the national team for a very long time, from Under-12, Under-13, Under-15, Under-17, all the way to the Super Eagles. I’ve been here for a long time.

“I’m not in the national team because of anybody or anything. It’s because of the love I have for the game and the passion. Every Nigerian dreams of playing for the Super Eagles, and I’ve been living that dream for a long time,” he told the Nigeria Football Federation.

The forward also made it clear that he remains ready to represent Nigeria whenever he receives a call-up, regardless of the level or circumstances.

“Even if na five-a-side Eagles they dey play, or na Under-15, if they invite me make I come play, I go play. E no matter wetin e be because na my passion. Anything wey anybody wan talk, e no concern me. As long as coach give me call-up, I go come play.”

Iheanacho returns to the Super Eagles at an impressive point in his club career, having made a strong start to life at Bursaspor.

The striker has scored 11 goals in eight matches for the Turkish side, form which has helped earn him another opportunity with the national team.

His recall comes ahead of Nigeria’s friendly against Russia on October 6, where Iheanacho will be hoping to mark his return with a strong performance.

For a player who has spent much of his career representing Nigeria, the latest call-up represents another chapter in a journey that began in the country’s youth setup and has continued through the senior national team.