Suleiman Mubarak Opens Up on First Super Eagles Call-Up and Warm Welcome from Senior Players
Slavia Prague midfielder Suleiman Mubarak has expressed his delight after earning his first Super Eagles call-up, revealing that the warm reception from the senior players surpassed his expectations.
The youngster admitted he had expected some of the established stars to be difficult to approach due to their status, but was delighted by how warmly everyone welcomed him into the camp.
"I'm happy to be here, and since I came to come, everybody has been friendly, which was not what I expected because I thought some of them would give attitude because they are big players," he said.
Mubarak also admitted that while he believed his performances would eventually earn him a national team call-up, he never imagined his first opportunity would come with the senior team.
"I believe my form was okay, and an opportunity would come, but I didn't think the opportunity would come with the senior team. So, when I got the call-up, I was so happy," he said.
Reflecting on his first training session with the Super Eagles, Mubarak said he picked up a lot from the senior players, especially their calmness and how well they relate to each other.
He added that he is keen to seize any chance he gets on matchday, with the aim of impressing the coaching staff and securing another call-up in the future.
Oyebade Oluwafemi
Dailysports's expert
Translated by the editors