Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peterside Idah has urged newly cleared shot-stopper Arthur Okonkwo to prove himself at the international level.
The former Lobi Stars goalie insists club form alone will not guarantee success for the Wrexham A.F.C goalkeeper with the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
Okonkwo recently received the green light from FIFA to represent the 2013 AFCON Champions after completing his nationality switch from England, ending months of uncertainty over his international future.
The 22-year-old, who developed at Arsenal and currently competes in the EFL Championship, is expected to receive his maiden call-up ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming international fixtures.
However, Idah believes the goalkeeper must first adapt to the unique demands of African football before staking a claim for a starting role.
“Well, he still has to prove himself. Being good for your club is quite different from playing for Nigeria,” Idah told Soccernet.ng.
“I’ve seen a lot of players perform very well at club level but struggle with the national team. It’s a different ball game entirely.”
The former international further highlighted the contrast between European and African football environments, noting that external conditions often play a significant role.
Battle lines drawn for Okonkwo ahead of June fixtures
With Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle set to assemble his squad for friendlies against Portugal and Poland in June, competition for the number one shirt is expected to intensify.
The #SuperEagles are set to face Poland and Portugal this summer! pic.twitter.com/RDPzaJ4EfR— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles)
Okonkwo’s inclusion could spark a fierce battle in goal — but as Idah insists, the former England youth international must first show he can handle the pressure of wearing the green and white.
