Napoli's Osimhen namechecks ex-Manchester United striker among Super Eagles legends

Speaking ahead of Nigeria's 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against the Republic of Benin, Napoli striker Victor Osimhen namechecked his mentor, Odion Ighalo among the legendary players who have worn the Super Eagles jersey in the past.

Former Manchester United striker Ighalo called time on his international career after winning the top scorer award at the 2019 AFCON, following in the footsteps of Segun Odegbami, Rashidi Yekini , Julius Aghahowa, Jay-Jay Okocha and Emmanuel Emenike, who have all won the award in previous tournaments.

Osimhen,who has inherited the number 9 jersey worn by Ighalo, says it's an honour to represent the Nigerian national team.

In an interview with Channels Television monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, Osimhen said : "I wouldn't say that we are the most talented because there have been legends that have played in the Super Eagles - the likes of Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, Ighalo, Obafemi Martins and the rest.

"I think we are just fortunate to be in the Super Eagles and everyone here deserves to be here because we have been doing great in our respective clubs.

"For me I feel it's an honour to represent the country so I think everyone is going to give their best".

The 22-year-old Osimhen is the joint-top scorer in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, level on four goals with Saidi Ntibazonkiza (Burundi), Louis Mafouta (Central African Republic) and Percy Tau (South Africa).

Ifeanyi Emmanuel