LAGOS JUNE 24TH (URHOBOTODAY) Fit-again Nigeria striker Emmanuel Emenike is targeting a return to the Super Eagles’ side in their crucial World Cup qualifier against Malawi in September.
Emenike has only just come back from injury following six weeks out with a knee problem. Now he is hoping he can pick up where he left off for club and country.
“I suffered that terrible injury while my confidence was high and luckily I have returned to training after six weeks out,” he told BBC Sport.
“I am not at 100 per cent yet, I still need match rhythm with my club and get back to rewarding them for the support, and honour our loyal fans and everyone who stood by me.
“After five very difficult months, I also hope to play for my country again in September.”
With the African Champions struggling at the ongoing Fifa Confederations Cup, his absence has further denied them a key threat up front.
“At the moment we have capable strikers in the squad and it is very important this team and fans come together because these players represent our country.”
Back in March the African Cup of Nations top scorer had criticised the country’s coach Stephen Keshi and officials for ignoring him after he suffered an injury at the Nations Cup.
But after speaking at length with both the coach and president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Aminu Maigari, the Spartak Moscow striker insists he has put the past behind.
“I felt a bit bad back then, but all that is behind me now because everyone must have learned greatly from that situation,” Emenike said on Saturday.
“I was not happy and when I am not happy, I do not have the power to hide my deep disappointments and feelings.
“When I finally spoke with the coach [twice], and the NFF president, everything was discussed and sorted. It was a great step forward.”
Source: Vanguard