WOLVES keeper Carl Ikeme has described playing for Nigeria as a ‘dream come true’ after being widely lauded for his international debut.
The 29-year-old has been hailed as the long-term successor for the country’s regular No.1, Vincent Enyeama, after keeping a clean sheet in the Super Eagles’ African Cup of Nations qualifier with Tanzania.
Sutton Coldfield-born Ikeme, who admitted to initially thinking his call-up last month was a ‘wind-up’, was hailed by former Nigerian striker Nwankwo Kanu, who said: “It is true that we did not win the match but we gain a son.”
Kanu’s one-time team-mate Jay Jay Okocha said of Ikeme’s performance: “He was wonderful.
“We finally got the keeper we have been waiting for.
“We know Enyeama will not be around forever, so it is good that he was discovered now. I wish him well.”
Now back at Wolves and preparing for tomorrow’s game at Bolton, Ikeme has set his sights on appearing for Nigeria at the African Cup of Nations and the World Cup.
“I hope to continue from where I left off if given the chance,” he said. “All I can say is it was indeed a great feeling putting on that jersey for Nigeria and a dream come true for me.
“The team is young so we can expect better results as we go along.”
Ikeme, who also featured in a friendly with Niger on Tuesday before returning to Wolves, added: “Playing in your first game for a team like Nigeria is not easy because there are many expectations that include filling the big shoes left by Vincent Enyeama, who has been amazing for us.
“I am glad I kept a clean sheet and wish to take time out to thank my team-mates who have been amazing and welcomed me from the moment I arrived.
“I have settled in well [with the Super Eagles]. My family are from Nigeria and it’s not like I dropped from the moon or something. I try a lot of Nigerian food and I feel very Nigerian.”
Culled from http://www.expressandstar.com
