Obiora Nwankwo has spoken about his delight after he was called up by Nigeria head coach, Sunday Oliseh, ahead of September’s 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying game against Tanzania.

The 24-year-old Académica de Coimbra midfielder was called up alongside 17 others on Monday for the clash against the Taifa Stars which comes up on September 4.

Mikel and Obiora

Obiora described the call up as “one of the best news I have heard in a long time” and is now looking forward to joining up with his international teammates.

“This is definitely one of the best news I have heard in a long time. I am indeed honoured to have been found worthy to represent my country again,” he said. The former Internazionale man was part of the Nigeria side that stunned many to win the title at the 2013 Afcon in South Africa.

He says working with the new national team trainer is something he is looking forward to.

“Oliseh is one of my heroes. I watched him as a young kid playing for Nigeria and working with him at the national team is something I am really looking forward to.

“I will as always, give my best playing for my country because that is what I have always done,” he said.

Obiora has been capped eight times by Nigeria at senior level.