Maja Sets Nigeria Target, Names Okocha His Idol News

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Maja Sets Nigeria Target, Names Okocha His Idol

By Daily Sports on July 28, 2020

Nigeria international Josh Maja is hoping to establish himself in the Super Eagles team under head coach Gernot Rohr.

The England-born winger is a newcomer in the Nigerian national team having made his international debut in September 2019 against Ukraine.

Maja impressed in his maiden full season in the French Ligue 1 as he netted six times in 22 games for FC Girondins de Bordeaux in the 2019/20 campaign.

This was after the 21-year-old player had joined Bordeaux from English club Sunderland midway through the 2018/19 season.

“Of course, playing in one of Europe’s top five leagues and performing well will improve my chances [of international selection],” Maja told BBC.

“I’ve settled in well since I joined [from Sunderland in January 2019]. I’ve adapted to the playing style and culture of the league and I’m hoping to play more games in the future. It’s a great experience in a top league.

“The Nigerian team has always had quality, but now there are a lot of young talents playing, so the future is very bright for us.”

The former Manchester City academy player named legendary Nigerian midfielder Augustine ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha as his idol.

“Hopefully the opportunity comes to play and help them make history. Playing on an international stage was a dream of mine and to represent my country and make my family proud,” he added.

“I’m familiar with my roots. I went to Nigeria a few times when I was young, and in the next few years, I’ll be going again.

“Okocha was a big icon and an example to many players, even outside of Nigeria. He had lots of qualities and performed well in the Premier League.” (BBC)

•PHOTO: Josh Maja

Source Daily Sports

Posted July 28, 2020