Former Super Eagles forward, John Utaka says Cyriel Dessers is long overdue to play a competitive match for the NT, and has backed the Striker to make an impact if given the chance.
Utaka’s comments follow an outcry from Dessers, who voiced his disappointment at being continually overlooked for official games despite being part of the Super Eagles team for five years.
Since making his international debut in 2020, the 30 year old has only featured in friendly matches.
“It hurts sometimes, you feel disappointed,” Dessers said. “I have been in and around the squad for five years now and I haven’t played in an official game yet, only friendly games, so I must say that hurts.”
In support of the striker’s concerns, Utaka, who earned 49 caps and represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups, said on Brila FM’s ‘No Holds Barred with Ifeanyi Udeze’ Brila.net that Dessers deserves a real opportunity.
“I think they should give him [Dessers] a chance,” Utaka said. “He is a good finisher. He shows quality, composure, and maturity. It is high time they give him his chance and let him show what he is capable of doing.”
Last season, Dessers just wrapped up an impressive season with Scottish side Rangers, scoring 29 goals and registering six assists across all competitions, surpassing his tally from the previous campaign.
Despite his performances in recent years, Dessers was excluded from Nigeria’s squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast and has not featured in recent FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
