Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest defender, Ola Aina has disclosed that staying on the pitch, performing well and simply enjoying his football career now matter more to him.
The Super Eagles right-back explained that his focus has shifted after previous injury setbacks, with his focus now firmly on consistency rather than pressure.
Aina noted that his priority remains playing good football and helping Forest stay clear of a relegation fight this season. The 28-year-old also talked on Taiwo Awoniyi’s departure to Coventry City, admitting the departure has left him as the only Nigerian player at Nottingham Forest.
He also added that he personally messaged Awoniyi on the day of the move to express how happy he was for his fellow teammate calling it a private note between the two of them.
Aina remains in Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles plans. He will be looking to carry his current form into Forest’s upcoming Premier League fixtures, with his continued fitness closely watched ahead of Nigeria’s September qualifiers.
Ultimately, Aina is not short of competition for the role, with Bright Osayi-Samuel remaining his fiercest rival for the start. The pair have effectively rotated the position under Chelle, while fringe options like Benjamin Fredrick and Felix Agu have also stepped in when Aina and Osayi are unavailable.
