Rangers International midfielder Isaac Saviour has commended the national team call up of Sodiq Ismail from Remo Stars, viewing it as a significant motivator for fellow Nigerian Professional Football League NPFL players. Saviour believes that Ismail’s inclusion in the Super Eagles is a testament to the fact that hard work within the domestic league can indeed lead to national recognition.
Having someone like Sodiq being invited to the national team is a big plus for other guys in the league, Saviour remarked. It gives us hope that anybody can be invited, especially with a legendary figure like Finidi George as the head coach. It’s a big development for the league.
Saviour emphasized the boost in morale and motivation among NPFL players, stating, It gives us the urgency to work hard and do our best, believing that we can get there. Sodiq is a big addition to the squad, a big addition.
He also praised Ismail’s abilities, comparing him to some of the best right backs globally, highlighting the player’s exceptional talent and his national team inclusion’s positive impact on the domestic league.
Editorial
The national team call up of Sodiq Ismail from Remo Stars represents more than just a personal milestone it is a beacon of hope and inspiration for players across the Nigerian Professional Football League NPFL. Isaac Saviour’s praise for Ismail underscores the significance of this achievement not just for the individual, but for the entire league.
In a landscape where international recognition often seems reserved for those playing abroad, Ismail’s inclusion in the Super Eagles serves as a powerful reminder that talent and hard work within the domestic league do not go unnoticed. This call up by Coach Finidi George, a legendary figure in Nigerian football, adds weight to the message that the NPFL is fertile ground for nurturing national team worthy talent.
For many NPFL players, the journey to the national team can seem daunting, filled with obstacles and uncertainty. Ismail’s success story injects a much-needed dose of optimism and motivation. It tells every player in the league that their efforts on the field can indeed lead to national and even international opportunities. This is crucial for maintaining high standards of performance and dedication within the league.
Ismail’s selection highlights the importance of continuous development and excellence in the NPFL. It brings attention to the league’s potential to produce top tier talent capable of competing on the global stage. As more players from the NPFL get recognized and included in national squads, it will not only elevate the quality of the league but also encourage better investment in infrastructure and youth development programs.
We must acknowledge and celebrate these milestones, understanding that they are steps towards a brighter future for Nigerian football. As fans and supporters, our role is to continue championing our local leagues and the talents within them, knowing that their success is integral to the overall growth of the sport in our country.
Looking ahead, it is essential for the NPFL and its stakeholders to build on this momentum. Creating more opportunities for players to showcase their skills, improving league standards, and ensuring that talents like Sodiq Ismail continue to emerge and shine will be key to sustaining the league’s upward trajectory.
Did You Know?
- Sodiq Ismail’s call-up to the Super Eagles is a significant milestone for Remo Stars, a relatively new club in the NPFL established in 2010.
- Finidi George, the current head coach of the Super Eagles, was a key player in Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON winning team and had a successful career in Europe, particularly with Ajax.
- The Nigerian Professional Football League NPFL is the top level football league in Nigeria, founded in 1972.
- The inclusion of domestic league players in national teams is seen as a crucial step towards strengthening local leagues and providing more opportunities for home grown talents.
- The NPFL has been a launchpad for several notable Nigerian footballers who have gone on to have successful careers both locally and internationally.
