Nigeria World Cup Focus: Dele Ajiboye confident of making it to Russia

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Tuesday May 15, 2018. 13:47

Nigeria and Plateau United goalkeeper Dele Ajiboye vows he will make the final squad ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup tournament in Russia.

Ajiboye insists he will give his all to make the Super Eagles squad to this year‘s global tournament.

The keeper was included in Gernot Rohr’s 30-man preliminary squad released on Monday as they finalise their preparations.

Ajiboye is a former youth international and will battle for a spot in the team alongside three other goalkeepers in Francis Uzoho, Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Daniel Akpeyi.

The trio have been constantly called up by head coach, Gernot Rohr, but three of them are expected to pick the goalkeeping slots.

But the former Nasarawa United, Shooting Stars and Warri Wolves keeper is determined to force his way into the final squad.

“I’m extremely happy to be in the preliminary squad for the World Cup. It is a big recognition for me and I will work hard to make the final squad,” Ajiboye told CompleteSportsNigeria.

“The other three goalkeepers (Francis, IK and Daniel) are my good friends and it is going to be a tough competition for us in camp.

“We all have to work hard to convince the coaches that we merit a place in the team.

“I believe that will bring out the best in all of us which is good for the team. I’m looking forward to this experience and hope to be on the plane to Russia at the end of the day.”