Haruna relishes W/Cup performance

By Tony Ubani, in South Africa
Despite the general gloom that enveloped the Nigerian national team following the poor performance at the South Africa 2010 World Cup, there some positives in the make up of the coach Lars Lagerback squad to the Mundial.

One of such bright spots in the squad was AS Monaco of France youngster, Lukman Haruna who  is still  basking in the euphoria of his emergence as Nigeria’s best player in the Super Eagles’ ill-fated appearance at the World Cup in South Africa. The youngster is not carried away as he has said was capable of doing a lot more.

Following high ratings by FIFA and independent pundits, the former Golden Eaglets and ex-Flying Eagles skipper admitted that he is excited to be named best among Nigeria’s misfiring lot to the Mundial, but says he aims to put in more effort in order to improve with each passing outing in the green-and-white.

Haruna was one of the surprise inclusions in Nigeria’s 2010 World Cup squad, after three brilliant performances in pre-competition international friendlies, then went on to start against Argentina and Greece.

Using their Castrol Index, FIFA rated Haruna as Nigeria’s best player at the tournament and the youngster says going to the World Cup has made him a better player.

“It’s great for me to play at the highest level of football. Of course, it’s a dream come true and I’m ready to work hard to remain a key member of the Super Eagles for years to come,” he promised.