'I may never have been a top talent' - Super Eagles CB insists he's consistently delivered for Hoffenheim

Super Eagles defender Kevin Akpoguma, has expressed his loyalty and commitment to German Bundesliga club TSG Hoffenheim, a club whom he had been under contract with for over a decade. 

The 29-year-old reflected on his remarkable journey with the club which he sees as his second home.

Akpoguma made his Bundesliga debut in October 2017, coming on as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against VfL Wolfsburg.

As time went on, He established himself as a reliable and skilled defender, earning the trust of his coaches and teammates. 

Over the years, Akpoguma has been an integral part of Hoffenheim's success, competing in European tournaments and navigating the challenges of the relegation battle.

Looking back on his years at the club, Akpoguma acknowledged the significant changes that have taken place within the club. 

Despite the ups and downs, he has remained a constant presence, growing and evolving as a player. 

Having been contracted to the club since 2013, he ranks among the top ten players with the most Bundesliga appearances in Hoffenheim's history.

Akpoguma's impressive form has continued this season, with 22 appearances in all competitions. His experience and leadership have been invaluable to the team, and he remains committed to giving his all for Hoffenheim. 

In a recent interview, Akpoguma shared his thoughts on his career, the club's development, and his future plans.

"I've grown with my career," Akpoguma said as quoted by Hoffenheim's official website. 

"I'll be 30 next year, so I'm slowly approaching the autumn of my career. My body feels wonderful, but at some point, we might reach a point where the club prefers to focus on young players. 

"That's the club's philosophy and the TSG way."

The towering centre-back acknowledged that he may not have been considered a top talent early in his career.

However, he has consistently delivered strong performances, earning his place in the team.

"I may never have been a top talent like Niklas Süle, Joelinton, or Christoph Baumgartner, who were sold for a lot of money, but I delivered my performances.

"And as long as the club wants to go down this path with me, I will continue to give one hundred percent for TSG."

On the international front, The former Germany U-20 skipper last represented Nigeria in 2023 playing for 19 minutes in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sierra Leone. 

He has been without an appearance ever since, with the likes of Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey and even more recently, Gabriel Osho, way above him in the pecking order of defenders in the national team.

Ejim Kaycee

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