Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has revealed that former Nigeria and Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel was one of his biggest inspirations growing up, describing the ex-national team skipper as a childhood idol.

Ndidi spoke ahead of Nigeria’s final Group C match against Uganda, scheduled for Tuesday evening in Morocco. The Super Eagles have already secured qualification to the next round following their victory over Tunisia and will be aiming to seal top spot with a positive result against the Cranes.

Addressing journalists at Monday’s pre-match press conference, the Besiktas midfielder reflected on the honour of representing Nigeria and the responsibility that comes with wearing the national colours. 

“It's a great honour to play for Nigeria. It is a great honour to represent Nigeria, over 200 million citizens,” he said. “For me, I think it is a priviledge to be here because we have so many players back home.”

The Super Eagles captain stressed that playing for the national team remains a dream for many footballers and said he never takes the opportunity for granted. 

“To represent Nigeria is like a great deal, I am really privilege to be here, to be part of this team, this great squad, I always try my best to give everything for the team,” he added.  

Ndidi also highlighted the role senior players play in inspiring the next generation, noting that he once looked up to established stars like Chelsea legend Mikel during his own journey. 

“Every player wants to be in the national team but even the younger players, we are the ones they look up to because I was once there, looking up to great players like Mikel Obi and the rest.” 

“My dream also was to be part of it, so being here is really a privilege to be part of it and I am honored to be here.”

The former Leicester City midfielder opened his goal-scoring account for Nigeria in the crucial victory over the Carthage Eagles at the Fez Stadium on Saturday night.

He will be eager to inspire the team to a positive result against Uganda and secure top spot in the group, which would ensure a more favourable path in the knockout phase. 

Adeyemi Adewale