Frank Onyeka has opened up on the physical strain of combining club football with international duty, admitting he is feeling the toll after a demanding schedule with the Super Eagles.
The midfielder delivered another standout performance for Coventry City in their 3-2 win over Derby County, scoring the opener and completing the full 90 minutes. However, the display came just days after featuring for Nigeria during the international break.
‘I’m tired’ – Onyeka speaks out
Onyeka featured in Nigeria’s matches against Iran and Jordan, playing 81 minutes in the latter before quickly returning to club duty.
Speaking after the game, he admitted the schedule has been physically demanding.
“I’m tired. I played on Tuesday night, traveled, came back, had a bit of training on Thursday, and played today,” Onyeka said.
“It’s a proud moment for me to represent my country, but traveling around is tiring. You just have to keep going.”
He added: “I need it [rest]. I need to rest well and focus so I’m ready to go again on Monday.”
First goal caps strong display
The 28-year-old also reflected on his goal – his first since joining Coventry on loan from Brentford in January.
“It was a special one. I saw the keeper off his line and decided to chip him. I’m really happy I got my first goal for Coventry,” he said.
“I had to go forward instead of backward because I felt we had more men on the right. I played a one-two, continued my run, got the ball, and got the goal.”
Promotion within reach
The win moves Coventry to 83 points, keeping them top of the Championship and 11 points clear of Millwall.
With six games remaining, the club now need just three wins to secure promotion to the Premier League, a target that looks increasingly achievable as Onyeka continues to play a central role, despite the physical demands