Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu has revealed former Arsenal forwards Nwankwo Kanu and Emmanuel Adebayor as his football role models ahead of Nigeria’s Round of 16 clash against Mozambique.

Onuachu, who has been in sensational form for Turkish side Trabzonspor following his move from Southampton, continued his fine run of form by scoring the opening goal in Nigeria’s victory over Uganda in their final Group C match.

Speaking to Oga Nla Media, the towering forward said he has drawn inspiration from several players over the years but singled out Kanu and Adebayor as the most influential.

“I like Kanu and Emmanuel Adebayor and I have quite a few but these are the ones I can remember now,” he said. 

The 31-year-old also spoke about the strong bond within the Super Eagles camp, highlighting a number of teammates he regularly interacts with.

“I would say everyone but everybody has their group. I think people I speak more to are my roommate Chidozie (Awaziem), Francis Uzoho, Raphael Onyedika, Frank but I will probably say everyone,” Onuachu revealed. 

Onuachu further described defender Bruno Onyeamachi as one of the funniest characters in the squad.

“The one I am closer to that is very funny is, people don't see or hear him, but I would say Bruno Onyeamachi,” he added. 

Away from football, the striker revealed some of his personal interests, noting his love for tennis and music

“I like to watch lawn tennis. Afrobeat and I think I love the big three (Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy),” he noted. 

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles have been holding closed-door training sessions as they fine-tune preparations for the knockout-stage encounter. 

Nigeria will face Mozambique on Monday, January 5, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 pm, as they continue their quest for continental success.

Adeyemi Adewale