Former Nigeria international Peterside Idah has cautioned newly cleared goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo that securing a place in the Super Eagles will depend on performance, not reputation.
Okonkwo recently received FIFA approval to switch allegiance from England to Nigeria, ending months of uncertainty over his international future.
The 22-year-old, who developed at Arsenal and now plays in the English Championship, is expected to be included in upcoming national team selections.
Club form not enough
Despite the excitement surrounding his availability, Idah stressed that success at club level does not automatically translate to international impact.
“Well, he still has to prove himself. Being good for your club is quite different from playing for Nigeria,” Idah said.
“I’ve seen a lot of players perform very well at club level but struggle with the national team. It’s a different ball game entirely.”
Idah pointed to the limited preparation time and tactical differences in international football as key challenges players must quickly adapt to.
Adapting to African conditions
The former goalkeeper also highlighted environmental and structural differences between European and African football, noting that these factors often affect player performance.
“When you’re in England, the weather is good, the clubs are well organised. But when you come to Africa, the situation is always different,” he added.
Competition remains strong
Okonkwo’s arrival adds depth to an already competitive goalkeeping squad. Nigeria currently boasts established options, including Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, and Francis Uzoho.
“That said, we already have two or three very good goalkeepers. In the last few years, I’m not sure we’ve really had problems in that department because [Stanley] Nwabali has done well, and Maduka [Okoye] has also come back,” Idah added.
Focus on performance
With friendlies against Portugal and Poland scheduled for June, Okonkwo is expected to get an opportunity to stake his claim. However, Idah insists the goalkeeper must remain focused and earn his place.
“So he still needs to prove himself. But kudos to him, he just has to keep working hard to earn his place.”
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