Dropped Super Eagles star, Ikechukwu Ibenegbu, believes Nigeria will beat Rwanda tomorrow in this interview with IZUCHUKWU OKOSI


You’re not part of the Super Eagles for the recent games. Are you disappointed by the turn of events?

I was part of the team until recently but I hope to bounce back in the team soon. I wish the players luck. It's national duty and so they deserve our support. I’m not disappointed at all and I don’t have much to say since I’m not in camp.

But could you offer one or two suggestions on how the Eagles can overcome Rwanda on Saturday?
They are all professionals and I know they will come out flying because we have a good coach in Stephen Keshi. We need to win that game so that qualifying for the 2013 Africa Nations Cup would be easier to negotiate.

There have been calls for the home-based players to form a greater percentage of the Eagles. So far, would you say that you have justified your inclusion in the team by your performance?

That judgment is left for others, but I believe we’re doing our best. The coach is rebuilding and with time, we shall get there by the grace of God.

The home-based players formed a large percentage of the players that played recently in a World Cup qualifier against Malawi. Did you expect the home based players to be heavily involved in the June fixtures the way it turned out to be?

I thank God for the players who played, it's gratifying to know that our efforts are paying off, but I would rather not talk about the events in the camp since I’m not there now.

Okay, do you see Heartland bounce back from the disappointment of the CAF Champions League exist and make it to the continent again next season?

I really hope so, it's not going to be easy, but I still believe that we can do so by the grace of God.

Some of your fans are confused about your playing position; are you a striker or a midfielder?

I’m an attacking midfielder but sometimes, I could play as a supporting striker, it depends on the coach's decision.

You have played for the Beach Eagles and has been one of the country’s best players on sand. Which one gives you more satisfaction?

 I prefer to play on the grass. The Beach Eagles assignment is just out of sheer patriotism. I love it on the grass.

 Thank you for your time...

You’re welcome!