'When you're captain of Nigeria' – Omeruo gets vote of confidence from CFR Cluj boss

CFR Cluj president Cristi Balaj has suggested that the transfer of Kenneth Omeruo to the Railwaymen is done and dusted even though an official confirmation of the deal is still pending at this stage.

The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations-winning centre-back has been unemployed since his departure from Kasimpasa in the winter transfer market.

CFR Cluj have won the race for the former Chelsea defender after Liga 1 rivals Dinamo Bucharest passed up the opportunity to sign him.

Before agreeing to join CFR Cluj, Omeruo was offered to Dinamo, who are in urgent need of central defenders, according to Pro Sport. 

Although initial talks with his representatives were positive and coach Zeljko Kopic appeared interested, the club ultimately decided against pursuing the deal.

Cristi Balaj has praised the leadership and experience of Omeruo, backing the former Super Eagles captain to rediscover his best form after several months on the sidelines due to a knee injury.

He highlighted Omeruo's pedigree at international level, having captained the Super Eagles on multiple occasions. 

"He is a player who has 69 appearances for the Nigerian national team. He had a medical situation," Cristi Balaj said to Digisport. 

"The important thing is to get back on track, to prepare. He had a problem with cleaning his meniscus.

"If he returns to the circuit, it will be good for everyone. When you are captain of the Nigerian national team, you can't help but have quality. He plays central defender." 

Omeruo has been inactive since September 2024 when he featured for an hour in a Turkish Super Lig fixture against Galatasaray.

The 31-year-old enjoyed loan spells at ADO Den Haag, Middlesbrough, Kasimpasa, Alanyaspor and CD Leganes during his time at Chelsea.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com