‘I have to work hard’ – Nathan Tella eyes Super Eagles return under Eric Chelle

Andre Olasukanmi
2 Min Read

Bayer Leverkusen winger Nathan Tella has expressed his desire to earn a place in the Super Eagles squad after scoring in his club’s 2-0 victory over Sparta Praha in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday.

The goal was his first ever Champions League goal, helping Leverkusen seal an automatic qualification to the knockout round of the competition.

Speaking in an interview with Nigerian journalist Oma Akatugba after the match, Tella said that he would not demand a national team call-up from new Eagles coach Eric Chelle, but would instead work hard to earn his spot.

“This is not for me to say. Like I said, I’ve never been a player that says ‘I should be called up’. On merit, I have to work hard and earn my chances. If the new coach (Eric Chelle) thinks I’ve done enough, then I’d happily accept the call. But, if not, that means I have to work harder,” he said.

The 24-year-old, who made his debut for Nigeria in November 2023 – his only cap for the Super Eagles – reaffirmed his commitment to representing Nigeria whenever given the opportunity.

“Yes, of course, it is an honour to play for your country. Many dream of playing with the best players in the country. Every opportunity I get to represent them (Super Eagles), I will give my 100 per cent. So hopefully I can do the right things here and get the recognition at home.”

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