Former Arsenal academy goalkeeper Ovie Ejeheri has joined the Nigeria national football team camp ahead of their Unity Cup clash against Zimbabwe in London.
The 22-year-old shot stopper, who currently plays for FC Midtjylland, took part in Saturday’s training session at Cray Valley Paper Mills ground on Middle Park Avenue as coach Eric Chelle continued assessing players before the tournament opener.
Ejeheri remains eligible to represent Nigeria, England and Uganda at international level, but admitted he was delighted to finally link up with the Super Eagles.
“It was really exciting and I enjoyed it,” Ejeheri said. “It’s been a long time coming so I am really proud of this moment.”
Ejeheri opens up on international ambition
The former Hale End academy product insisted he felt relaxed during training despite the importance of the opportunity handed to him by the coaching crew.
I don’t think there’s any pressure in training. Maybe if I was to play a game I’d feel some sort of pressure, but even now football is football, so you got to really enjoy it,” he added.
Ejeheri also described the invitation as a memorable milestone in his career.
“It’s a moment I’ll remember for the rest of my life because this is the first time. You always remember the first time of anything.
“It would be good to keep the momentum going, but whatever comes my way I’ll deal with it. I’m grateful for the opportunity for sure.”
The goalkeeper was also reunited with fellow former Arsenal academy player Arthur Okonkwo in camp.
“Once you leave Arsenal, it is good to see one of the boys again. It’s like an old friend you haven’t seen in a while,” Ejeheri said.
Chelle continues squad assessment
Ejeheri believes his ability to play in a high defensive line could suit Chelle’s tactical approach with the national team.
“Being a good goalkeeper in general and of course playing in the role that the coach would want me to play, with the high line and all those kind of things, I feel like I can do that,” he explained.
The goalkeeper also revealed his surprise at Chelle’s personality after their first interaction.
“He had a good chat and I was training. He is quite funny. I wasn’t expecting the way he acted towards me, so it was funny.”
The Super Eagles camp later increased to 17 players following the arrival of goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and other invited players ahead of Tuesday’s game against Zimbabwe.