Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has reaffirmed his commitment to the Nigerian national team, expressing a strong desire to build on his international appearances after making a return to the Super Eagles setup during the March international window.

Okoye, who was absent from Nigeria's squad at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, marked his comeback with involvement in the Super Eagles' 2-1 friendly victory over Iran in Antalya, Turkey.

However, the 26-year-old was unable to feature in Nigeria's subsequent 2-2 draw against Jordan after sustaining a thigh injury in training.

Okoye has since returned to action in impressive fashion, maintaining a high level of performance in Serie A.

The Nigeria International recently delivered a standout display in Udinese's 3-0 victory over AC Milan, keeping a clean sheet to extend his fine run of form.

The result saw him achieve a personal milestone in Italian football, recording three consecutive clean sheets for the first time since joining Udinese in 2023.

Speaking on his return to the national team, Okoye expressed both pride and determination to remain a regular feature in the Super Eagles.

"I was so pleased to be called up to the national team," he said on Udinese Tonight, via Udinese's official website.

"It's important to me as a player and as a person. I want to return many more times."

Okoye, who made his Super Eagles debut as a substitute against Brazil in October 2019, has earned 19 caps for Nigeria.

While Stanley Nwabali remains without a club, the Udinese goalkeeper will be eager to seize his opportunity. 

His recent club form could prove decisive as he aims to reclaim a starting role and secure more consistent invitations to the Super Eagles squad.

Adeyemi Adewale