By Saheed Afolabi
England-born defender, Pelumi Maxwell has confirmed his desire to play for the Nigeria National U-20 team, the Flying Eagles.
Maxwell, who is the Captain of English Football League One side (EFL), Oxford United FC (U-23) said he has always dreamt of playing for Nigeria, and that is one thing he has always admired even as a kid growing up in England.
Regarded as a promising player, by the English media, Maxwell is mainly known for his speed, energy and offensive capabilities, as well as his technique, dribbling skills, creativity and crossing ability. He plays mainly as a right full back and is compared to Manchester City Portuguese Defender Jao Cancelo.
‘I like to express myself and work very hard on and off the pitch. I have great passion for winning and always do everything not to lose games.” He told the Media.
“It has always been a ‘dream’ to wear the famous green and white colours of Nigeria. My Dad loves Nigeria alot and would be proud if I play for them, starting from the Flying Eagles.
“I want to be a patriotic and committed footballer, who will never turn his back on the nation, when given the opportunity to play for the good people of Nigeria. I believe I have what it takes to play for Nigeria National U-20 side, the Flying Eagles and possibly the Super Eagles in the near future.
“I definitely have a lot of great qualities I would bring to the team. My defensive attributes is one of the best, as a player, I love to operate from the right side and make good crosses for attackers to score, while recovering very well at full back.
“I also love to bring my winning mentality to the team, As Captain of Oxford United U-23 side, I have been able to grow as a player, even though am just 19 years old. It has really helped me psychologically and I hope to bring that maturity to the National team, if given the opportunity.
I also understand that the Competition for places in the squad wouldn’t be easy, but I am a fighter, who’s always prepared for a battle and I believe I will thrive with my talent and great attributes.
Maxwell, who is a huge supporter of the Super Eagles, said he has been keeping tabs on the Super Eagles last round of game against the Black Stars of Ghana for the Qatar 2022 World Cup Qualifiers and is confident Nigeria has all it takes to qualify for the biggest football event in the world.
“We are definitely going to qualify for the World Cup, because we have quality players that can push us the the World Cup and the Black Stars can’t stop us from achieving that aim. I believe we will also do exceptionally well at the World Cup, because I have faith in the team. He Concluded.
