IDEYE boast: I'll justify my inclusion

Dynamo Kiev striker Brown Ideye, said he's ready to show his class at the 2013 Nations Cup in South Africa after he was finally named in the original 23 man squad.

Ideye was not on the final squad on Tuesday as he struggled to impress in training camp, but in the list released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Wednesday night, the Ukraine-based striker was eventually preferred to Turkey-based midfielder Raheem Lawal, who was on the original list. And the former Ocean Boys ace said he has nothing to prove than to raise his game and prove his inclusion in the team.

"I'm happy to be part of the final team," said Ideye.

"It's great to be in South Africa with Nigeria, that was my mission at the early stage of the qualifiers and my mission still remain, I want to fly with the team in South Africa to win and bring back the trophy.

"For all I care is to justify my inclusion. I will have to work harder to be on the starting line and prove my worth for the team as a whole."

"There are lots of striking options for the coach but I will definitely prove myself and deliver for the team whenever I get my chance to play."

EMENIKE ready for AFCON battles

Super Eagles bully striker, Emmanuel Emenike has revealed his joy after making the final 23 man squad to represent Nigeria at 2013 Nations Cup in South Africa.

The powerfully-built striker is the arrow head of top Russian club Spartak Moscow after his heroics in Turkey with Karabukspor, but the talented goal poacher is confident of ending his national team goal drought in South Africa.

Emenike's inclusion was a matter of his threat to any opposing defence with his aggression and movement. He is strong and fast. He has scored vital goals for his various clubs as Nigerians await that for the Eagles.

"It was a dream come true," said Emenike.

"Of course I am excited for making the final squad. It is a big privilege for me to make the final squad for such tournament, especially in a country like South Africa."

"We have much to prove and to improve on, but above all, we can rewrite the history book."

"Everybody deserved to be there because we all work harder; it was battle to the end. We still work harder to achieve our focus at the tournament."

"There is focus and determination in the team, we want to rewrite our history, there is believe in us that we can spring a surprise at the tournament."

"Football career is up and down, and you must always be ready for the battle when it comes to coach decisions. I think the dropped players also deserved to make the team but the coach must also take a decision.

"All the qualified countries dream of winning the trophy. It is also our main target to fight and win it. We're very confident that we can. I am very much happy with the mentality of the team. It’s ‘great feelings here, everybody stick to one mindset "winning".

OBOABONA: I have a lot to prove

"Keshi has been so wonderful to my career in the national team, and I know I have a lot to prove for him not only in South Africa. This is a big chance for me and my career. A chance I can use to climb the biggest mountain in my career."

These are the words that came from Sunshine Stars defender Godfrey Oboabona after he was named in the final 23 man team that will travel to South Africa for Nations Cup.

The Sunshine Stars skipper has been one of a handful of players from the NPL who have worked with Keshi since December 2011. He started out with the Eagles at right back, but he has since been moved to central defence where he has partnered Egwuekwe. His confidence and versatility have been his biggest assets.

"When you are given this kind of opportunity all you need is to prove it right. Keshi has made me a better player and I am proud of this great chance."

"I am growing better in the team, I get expose everyday in the team and I believe in some years to come, I will be a pillar at the defence line of the team. I have a lot to prove for the coach and the country that made me what I am today. It is a great honour for home based players to have chances in this star studded team. I am flattered.”

 

AJILORE rates Eagles 50-50 at AFCON

Groningen FC midfielder Femi Ajilore believes that Super Eagles of Nigeria have 50% of winning their third AFCON trophy in South Africa.

The 2008 Beijing Olympic silver medallist declared that Keshi's team need to diligent and humility to conquer in South Africa but confident that there will be a big shock from the team.

In an exclusive chat from Spain where Groningen is currently camped, Ajilore further spoke on his future in the Super Eagles.

"There is 50-50 chance for the team in South Africa," said Ajilore.

"We have good players but sometimes winning trophy has to do with diligent and humility."

"Though, I am very confident that these guys are ready to prove a surprise in South Africa.

“I will only advise them to stay as one family and emulate the 1994 record."

"I know Keshi has the experience to lead the team and I wish them a better outing.”