Speaking to reporters, including allnigeriasoccer.com, at the end of training on Monday evening, Kingsley Aniagboso has admitted that he was surprised to be picked in the latest Super Eagles squad by manager Jose Peseiro. 

It is believed that the Giant Brillars glovesman benefited from a directive issued to Peseiro by the Nigeria Football Federation that a minimum of three home-based players should be included on the roster for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. 

Aniagboso's Flying Eagles teammate, Daniel Bameyi and Rivers United goalkeeper Victor Sochima have also been called up. 

Aniagboso was second choice goalkeeper behind Nathaniel Nwosu heading into the 2023 U20 AFCON but displaced the Water FC star as first choice as from the second group game 

And he didn't disappoint, keeping four clean sheets in his five appearances during the tournament in Egypt. 

"I feel good, I feel happy. I want to learn and if anything happens I have to play and defend the post for Nigeria," Aniagboso said. 

"I'm here to learn, I am here to improve myself but if the chance is given to me I have to do my best to help the team."

When asked if he was surprised that the chance came too early, he responded : "I am surprised but I'm always positive. It's my dream.

"When I was in Egypt I know the next step is here so I put every effort to make it to this place but I wasn't expecting it this time, so I'm surprised. "

Aniagboso concluded by saying that he will help the Super Eagles beat Guinea-Bissa if selected in the starting lineup on Friday.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel  

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