Austin Ejide targets Eagles action

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Austin Ejide has signified his intention to be a part of Nigeria’s squad to the World Cup in Russia later this year.

Ejide, who now plays for Hapoel Hadera in Israel, says he wants to return to the Super Eagles in time for the World Cup in Russia.

The 33-year old has 45 caps for Nigeria after he made his Super Eagles debut on April 16, 2001, against Namibia.

After falling out of favour at the national team soon after the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil, the former Etoile Sahel of Tunisia and later Bastia of France shot stopper said he is looking to stage a return to the Super Eagles squad.

“The good thing is that I’m back to the game, keeping game after game,” Ejide told SCORENigeria.

“I’m also in good shape, doing well for my club out there in Israel.

“Yeah, I would want to play for my country again, it is my dream, and I love doing that.

“If the manager (Gernot Rohr) gives me the opportunity, why not?”

Following Carl Ikeme’s illness, Super Eagles goalkeeping department has come under severe criticisms with Rohr still unsure of who he takes to Russia 2018 World Cup.

AFCON winner in 2013, Ejide has three World Cup experiences below his belt having made the Korea/Japan 2002 Super Eagles squad list. He was also part of the South Africa 2010 party as well as the Brazil 2014 World Cup showpiece.

He has also featured in five AFCON finals tournaments in Tunisia 2004, Egypt in 2006, Ghana in 2008, Angola in 2010 and 2013 in South Africa.