AJ Auxerre of France defender, Gabriel Osho is eager to wear Nigeria’s jersey for the second time in quick succession and hopes it will be this Monday against Rwanda in Uyo.
Sports247.ng gathered that, despite not enjoying a smooth debut in last Thursday’s 1-1 draw away to Benin Republic in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, the former Luton Town and Rochdale of England centre back is desirous of a second chance in Nigeria’s green-and-white jersey.
He admitted that Thursday’s game was tough for him, as it was his first time playing in Africa, but stressed that he had long ago developed a strong desire to express his talent for Africa’s most populous country.
Osho stated, “It was different. When I got into the stadium, the atmosphere was tight, and then came loads of rain. Wow! It was crazy.
“It was a different experience for me playing in Africa; something I had never done before.
“I must be honest, putting on the Eagles’ shirt and playing for Nigeria was a dream come true for me.
“It was an honour and, for the game, we got the job done.”
The dreadlocks-wearing defender also admitted that the Eagles struggled to get their act together during the encounter, as they relied on an 81st minute header from Victor Osimhen to share points with the hosts inside Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.
“It wasn’t our best game, and all the players probably knew it. But, the job was to qualify, and we’ve done so.
“Thanks to God that we did that,” added the 26-year-old defender, who has also previously played for Reading, Yeovil Town, Maidenhead United, Aldershot Town and Bristol Rovers at various levels of the English leagues.
Osho then spoke about his strong determination and desire to play for Nigeria, which he said grew in him long ago, such that honouring his Eagles’ call-up was not a dilemma for him.
“It wasn’t a hard decision for me choosing to play for Nigeria. I came for the under-17 camp before the World Cup in 2015 … because I always wanted to play for Nigeria.
“I just had to wait, and God willing, the time has come now. It was never a hard decision for me, because I had earlier come into Nigeria four times before, doing that with my family.
“I’ve always wanted to be seen as a Nigerian. I’m a Nigerian, I’m Nigerian. I was born in England and grew up in England, but I’m Nigerian.
“Your family’s blood is the real blood. So, it was never a hard decision for me.
“I also want to come back here more, even when I’m not playing. God willing, I could even be involved as a coach.
“I am from Ejigbo in Lagos State, and I am proud of where I come from,” stressed the jocular lad, whose other names are Jeremiah and Adedayo.
He then spoke about his favourite position on the football pitch and concluded with a declaration that he has a strong desire to play against Rwanda on Monday in Uyo.
“I like playing anywhere in the centre of defence. I leave the right and left to Ola (Aina) and Bruno (Onyemachi) because I don’t like to do all of that running.
“I like anywhere in the middle of defence. Put me on the left or right through the middle, I don’t mind; as long as I can play on that field.
“My biggest asset is my desire to win. It’s a little bit tough when it’s your first game. But, hopefully, I will get more games to show my desire and put in that energy.
“It’s important for me, because every game I play, I just want to win them all,” Osho concluded with a grin plastered to his face.
