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Nigerian stars Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey have explained that the Super Eagles need to keep winning big to attract new talents to the team.
The Super Eagles players played an important role in the Super Eagles' success at the 2023 African Cup of Nations.
The two helped the Super Eagles advance to the final of the AFCON 2023 tournament in Ivory Coast by playing all seven of Nigeria's games.
Iwobi and Bassey had the option to represent other countries abroad, but they chose to represent Nigeria instead.
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12:52 - 28.10.2024
‘I made sure I’m an option’ - Iwobi hails fellow teammate after providing assist for his goal
Fulham star Alex Iwobi has lavished his colleague Emile Smith Rowe with plaudits after his outstanding assist against Everton.
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23:20 - 27.10.2024
'It has happened before' — Disappointed Iwobi slumps shoulders despite scoring against Everton
Nigerian midfielder Alex Iwobi was left disappointed following his team's draw against Everton, despite scoring.
Iwobi and Bassey speak on foreign players
Iwobi has said that winning trophies draws in foreign players to the team when asked about the effect it has on the national team.
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Speaking with Sky Sports, Iwobi said, “Yeah, of course, especially with the sort of talent we have in Nigeria now.
“Unfortunately, we lost in the final (AFCON), but if we keep on progressing and win competitions.
"it’ll attract players not just living in England, but also in Spain and Germany to try and play from where they’re actually from.
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“I grew up in the Nigerian culture so when I just tried it out and saw it what was I like, there was no turning back for me. Plus, they’ve seen me and Calvin do it, why not do it as well?.”
Bassey, on the other hand, said that the affection he has received from Nigerians has been incredible and urged more players who were born outside of Nigeria to always return to their roots in order to explore their own identities.
He said, “The love is crazy, still and I think more from my family. I didn’t get to grow up in Nigeria, so whenever I go back, it’s always a different connection and like killing two birds with one stone.
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“Like Alex said, I’m the first generation from my family to grow up in England, but I grew up in a very African household, so for me, it didn’t feel strange going back, it just felt normal.
“So, I think it encourages people to learn more about their backgrounds. They don’t necessarily have to play for the country but at least to know more about their roots is important. Alex and I feel at home when we’re there, so it’s good.”
Iwobi and Bassey have been regulars in Marco Silva’s starting lineup this season. Iwobi scored for Fulham at the weekend in their 1-1 draw against Everton.
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