Searching for Rediscovery in Greece

His four goals at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations was crucial to Nigeria’s winning the biennial competition for the third time. As a result, some observers thought a striker that would fill the vacuum left by Super Eagles alltime highest goal scorer, Rashi

mmanuel Emenike's first “missionary journey to Turkey” with Fenerbahce was more memorable for its controversies than anything of value. He was accused of match-fixing, though later released without charge. In his second stint with the Turkish side, he was very unpopular with the club's supporters largely due to his poor performance, scoring only four goals in 27 appearances. Things came to a head that he once stormed off the field after he was abused by his own fans, culminating in a move to UAE side, Al Ain on loan.

However, Emenike last week joined Greek champions, Olympiakos from Fenerbahce, after signing a two-year deal and a fee said to be about $2.8 million. After struggling with injuries and a lack of first-team football last season, Olympiakos provides him with a platform that includes the European Champions League next season.

"I know there are big expectations from the fans and club, but I am ready. I've joined the most successful club in Greek football and I want to give my best for the team," the 30-year-old told BBC Sport.

The former Super Eagles striker is the sixth Nigerian player to sign for Olympiakos of Greece, following in the footsteps of Rashidi Yekini, James Obiorah, Haruna Babangida, Michael Olaitan and Brown Ideye.

Between the summer of 2009 and 2012, the forward averaged over 14 league goals per season with Karabukspor and Spartak. During the 2013-14 campaign, he managed 12 goals in 28 league outings for Fener, but in 2014, despite making only one league outing less, he contributed only four goals.

After a memorable display against BosniaHerzegovina at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he drove down the left flank, leaving defenders in his wake before setting up Osaze Odemwingie's pivotal winner, Emenike went on 15 international matches without a goal. Late coach Stephen Keshi had to drop Emenike, who previously would have been the first name on the list.

The question on the lips of observers is whether Emenike's move to Greece could really