Debutant Bankole Kayode reacts to Super Eagles call-up, vows to give his best

• Bankole Kayode has earned his first Super Eagles call-up after impressing with his performances for Remo Stars in the NPFL
• The 22-year-old goalkeeper described his selection as a dream come true and was overwhelmed by the support from teammates and loved ones
• Despite the excitement, Kayode remains focused, insisting that his approach to the game will not change at the national level

Remo Stars goalie Bankole Kayode has described his Super Eagles call-up as a dream come true but insists that nothing will change about his approach to the game. 

The 22-year-old Remo Stars goalkeeper was named in Eric Chelle’s final 23-man squad after impressing in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

Kayode, who has been a consistent performer for Daniel Ogunmodede’s side, earned his place among Nigeria’s top goalkeepers after a string of outstanding performances in the domestic league. 

Speaking about his selection, the towering shot-stopper admitted he was overwhelmed with joy when he heard the news,

“I was very happy. I was very excited when I got the news. For me, it’s a dream come true. My teammates were also happy for me, and I received a lot of messages and calls from loved ones,” Kayode said.

Despite the euphoria surrounding his inclusion in the national team, the goalkeeper remains grounded and focused. 

When asked how he would feel if given a chance to start for the Super Eagles, he emphasised that his approach to the game would remain the same,

“If I’m called up to play, I’ll do things the same way I’ve been doing at my club. I’ll still organize the defense in my usual way, calling the right person at the right time, communicating effectively, and ensuring everyone is well-positioned. Nothing changes; football is the same everywhere. The level may be different, but the key is to stay calm and communicate well,” he said.

Kayode also stated that he was ready to contribute to the team in any capacity, whether on the field or from the bench. More importantly, he sees this as an opportunity to learn and grow as a player,

“I will contribute my quota to the team in any way I can, either from the bench or on the pitch. I’m also going there to learn and to give my 100%. I do not take this opportunity for granted,” he added.

The Super Eagles will face Rwanda in Kigali on March 21 before returning to Uyo to take on Zimbabwe four days later. 

These matches are crucial, as Nigeria has endured a difficult start to their World Cup qualifying campaign, making them must-win games for Chelle’s side.

“I rushed to meet his dad,” Ex-NFF boss Pinnick reflects on convincing Lookman to join Super Eagles

Previously, TheRadar reported that Amaju Pinnick, former president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has revealed the extensive efforts that culminated in Ademola Lookman’s first competitive appearance for the Super Eagles in March 2022. 

The revelation comes after Lookman was crowned African Footballer of the Year on Monday, December 16 in Morocco, a milestone Pinnick regards as validation of the groundwork laid during his tenure.