New Super Eagles goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo says he is still learning the Nigerian national team environment after making an impressive start to his international career.
The 24-year-old Wrexham goalkeeper made his senior debut during Nigeria’s successful Unity Cup campaign in London, keeping two clean sheets as the Super Eagles won the invitational tournament.
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Despite an assured start between the sticks, Okonkwo insists he is taking a patient approach as he adapts to life in the national team.
“It’s my first time in the Nigeria team, and I’m just taking it all in,” Okonkwo said.
“It was really good to watch how we operate against difficult opponents this month. I’m just enjoying the experience day by day. I’m just so thankful for the opportunity.”
Rather than competing immediately for the number one shirt, the former Arsenal academy goalkeeper revealed he has been learning from more experienced Super Eagles goalkeepers Francis Uzoho and Maduka Okoye.
“Uzoho and Maduka are two very good goalkeepers,” he said.
“You learn things during training, and I was able to watch them because they’ve been here longer than me, so they understand how we play. They understand the system. They understand everything much better than I do.
“It’s just about taking everything in, understanding the way we play and bringing it into my own game.”
Okonkwo also admitted that helping Nigeria win the Africa Cup of Nations has become his biggest international ambition.
“My biggest dream would be helping this country win AFCON,” he said.
“It’s been too long. And, of course, to qualify for the World Cup and go as far as possible. I think we have the best country, and we can dream of winning the World Cup.”
Away from international football, the goalkeeper remains focused on helping Wrexham secure promotion to the Premier League after the club narrowly missed out on the Championship playoffs last season.
With one year remaining on his contract, Okonkwo has also attracted transfer interest, but insists his immediate priority is continuing to play regularly and develop his game.
The former Arsenal youth product also disclosed that he still keeps in touch with England international Bukayo Saka, revealing they recently spoke after Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.
Having enjoyed a memorable first taste of international football, Okonkwo believes he is only at the beginning of his Super Eagles journey, with his focus firmly on learning, improving and becoming a key part of Nigeria’s future.
