Can Onyekuru rival Moses Simon for the left wing spot of the Super Eagles?

The Super Eagles' left wing spot at the moment is occupied by Nantes' forward, Moses Simon. He has featured 54 times for Nigeria, registering 7 goals and 9 assists.

While this is a decent figure, it is a notorious fact that Simon has never been consistent for the Super Eagles. In his last 10 games, he has just 1 goal and 2 assists, could his inconsistency be more proven?

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This implies that Simon's position as the first-choice left winger should be under threat. One familiar name that comes to mind that can rival Simon is Henry Onyekuru.

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Onyekuru after some seasons of struggle seems to have rediscovered his form with Super Lig side, Adana Diraspor.

The former Everton winger has 6 goals and 2 assists in 20 appearances in the Super Lig, establishing himself as a key figure in the Turkish club.

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The last time Onyekuru featured for Nigeria was at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations where he could only play 5 minutes against Guinea-Bissau.

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Onyekuru's form in the Turkish league is enough to get him a recall into the Super Eagles. Not only does he have one of the most goal contributions in his team, but most of the attack also comes through his position, evidencing his vital role for Adana Demirspor.
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Onyekuru's recall would not automatically displace Moses Simon from the Super Eagles' first XI but would put him under pressure, especially if the Olympiakos loanee can replicate his club form whenever called up.

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Having a competitive rival should raise the game Simon and if he fails to do so, Jose Paseiro can call upon Onyekuru.

I believe this healthy rivalry if the coach allows it to thrive will raise the level of both players and Nigeria would be able to get the best out of them.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

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