Amkar Perm midfielder Izunna Uzochukwu was pleased to receive his first – ever Nigeria call – up ahead of the African Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania in 18 days time.

The former FC Midtjylland star, his good pal Sylvester Igboun and Wolves netminder Carl Ikeme were the three new faces introduced to the squad when the roster was announced on Monday evening.

Izunna

“Firstly, I am happy to be invited at last because I have waited for the invitation for a very long time but thank God it happened at last, “ Uzochukwu said.

“My mum was the first person I called and the invitation will be celebrated with a victory against Tanzania. A big brother of mine told me that my name was among the players that were invited.

“I think the game against Tanzania is winnable but it is not going to be an easy one, but with teamwork, hard work and full commitment we can overcome them and get the three points by God’s grace.”

If Izunna and Sly are fielded against Tanzania, they will follow in the footsteps of Femi Ajilore, who was the first ex FC Ebedei player to wear the jersey of the national team.