Rotherham United of England defender, Semi Ajayi has given thanks to God for making it possible for him to get his senior debut with Nigeria and that he was able to be part of w inning side on the historic date in his career.
After coming off the bench in place of injured Chidozie Awaziem in Saturday’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier way to Seychelles, Ajayi said he is happy to finally get his competitive debut with Nigeria.
The former Arsenal youth team player, who was a member of Nigeria’s youth national team, Flying Eagles that played at the Toulon Invitational Tournament in France back in 2013, is now looking forward to more days of glory in the green-and-white.
Ajayi, who was born in London, made three appearances against Belgium, Brazil and Portugal at the 2013 Toulon Tournament.
However, for five years, the 24-year-old was in the international wilderness before he received his first call-up to the senior national team last month.
Before him, Victor Moses, Alex Iwobi and Ola Aina played for England’s various youth national teams before they committed their international future to Nigeria, but Ajayi was uncapped by The Young Lions prior to his maiden appearance for the Eagles.
Eagles manager, Gernot Rohr handed Ajayi his debut when he introduced the tall, languid defender as replacement for injured stand-in right-back, Awaziem in the 73rd minute.
In the aftermath of his senior national team bow, Ajayi has celebrated the victory and his personal elevation, as he posted: ”Was an honour to make my international debut.
”Humbled to finally represent my country at the highest level and even more grateful to mark it with a win and clean sheet. Thank you God. #SuperEagles.”
