Igoh Ogbu shares what he loves about Eric Chelle, three qualities that make him stand out at CB

Slavia Prague central defender Igoh Ogbu is delighted to be part of the senior national team set-up for the first time in his career. 

Six years after featuring for the Flying Eagles at the 2019 Fifa U20 World Cup in Poland, Ogbu has earned a maiden call-up to the Super Eagles for two crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. 

Nigeria's new boss Eric Chelle handed Ogbu a call-up following his outstanding performances for Salvia Prague in the ongoing season. 

He has scored two goals in twenty league games from his defensive position, and has made appearances in the Champions League qualifiers and Europa League.

Speaking to Nigerian reporters in Kigali, Ogbu shared his thoughts on training under Eric Chelle.

"He is a tough gaffer, he pushes us to be good players and that's what I love," the former Lillestrom man said.

When asked about his key attributes, Ogbu confidently stated: "My three best qualities? I am strong, intelligent, and capable of playing good football."

Nigeria's start to the qualifiers has been far from convincing, with the team failing to deliver solid results in their opening four matches.

However, Ogbu remains focused on helping the Super Eagles bounce back and emphasized the importance of making every opportunity count. 

"It feels great. I am happy to be part of the national team. For me, it's a great thing. Everybody wants to play for his country, I  am really happy to be part of this team.

"The moment they called me to the national team, you know it's not a place for holiday, so we are coming here to fight for Nigerians and we are here to play good football.

"When you have the opportunity and the time to play, you have to do what is right for the country and for yourself as well."

With Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey ahead of him in Eric Chelle's pecking order of centre-backs, Ogbu's chances of making his full debut against Rwanda on Friday appear slim — unless the Malian tactician decides to field three central defenders.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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