Afelokhai lifted by Super Eagles invitation

Enyimba FC goalkeeper, Theophilus Afelokhai has said he feels highly lifted by his recent invitation to the Super Eagles.

The former Kano Pillars captain was drafted to the senior national team as replacement for injured goalkeeper Francis Uzoho.

He will therefore vie for shirt in the team with the duo of Enyimba team mate Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Daniel Akpeyi of Chippa United in South Africa.

The Super Eagles are billed to face the Bafana Bafana of South Africa on November 17 in the return leg of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier and three days later engage Uganda in an international friendly in Asaba.

Speaking to Daily Trust on his invitation, the goalkeeper who was in impeccable form for Enyimba in their CAF Confederation Cup campaign said he is grateful to God for another opportunity to serve his country.

He said his invitation didn’t come to him as a surprise because while waiting for his chance, he continued to work hard.

Afelokhai therefore said he plans to make judicious use of the latest opportunity that has come his way.

“To be honest with you, I am very happy and at the same time grateful to God. This the Lord’s doing.

“The invitation didn’t come to me as a surprise because I knew it will happen sooner than later.

“I know that hard work pays so I always do my best to be consistent in my performance.

“Anytime anyone asked me why I wasn’t in the Super Eagles, I tell them God’s time is the best. So this is the time,” he said.

Afelokahi added that is he is done with celebration of the new achievement and is focused on justifying the confidence reposed in him by the coach.

“I am done with any form of celebration. I am now focused on the tasks ahead.

“It has been my dream to keep for the Super Eagles so I won’t waste this chance,” he pledged.

Afelokahi a member of Super Eagles Team B is yet to make his senior team debut.