Super Eagles new invitee Tolu Arokodare has expressed his excitement about being invited to the national team ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
Arokodare made the final 23-man list selected for the crucial qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe later on Friday and Tuesday respectively.
The Genk striker says he was surprised to be included in the provisional list but knew it could come based on his recent run of form.
He added that he feels blessed and grateful to be in the final squad.
Arokodare shared his thoughts with the media crew of the Super Eagles on Monday evening.
“First, I was surprised. I felt very honored to be mentioned amongst the 31 players. It was quite surprising. I knew it was coming because I’ve been doing pretty well, and I was hoping it would come, and it did come. I felt like a winner already. I already had it at the back of my mind. Even if I didn’t get to make the final 23, I’ve done something. I’ve achieved something.
“Being in the final 23, I just felt really blessed and I was very grateful. It means a lot. It’s one of the best things that can happen to a football player. Getting the opportunity to represent your country, to play. As a kid, you always watched the national legends play. You always wanted to play for your national team. Finally, being in that position to be able to play for my country”
Tolu Arokodare arrived at Super Eagles camp in Kigali on Sunday night alongside Victor Osimhen, Kayode Bankole, and the rest of the early birds.
Arokodare is enjoying a decent run of form this season in the Belgian Jupiler League with 19 goals and assists in 35 matches this season.
The 24-year-old tall striker will look to make his debut against Rwanda or Zimbabwe as the Super Eagles look to secure maximum points in the qualifiers.
