Super Eagles winger Nathan Tella has dismissed recent claims suggesting he is deliberately avoiding call-ups to the Nigerian national team, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Bayer Leverkusen forward, who was part of the Bundesliga-winning squad under Xabi Alonso, addressed the rumours following his recent return to the Super Eagles for the Unity Cup in London, insisting his commitment to Nigeria has never been in doubt.
“It’s good. You know, I’m happy to be back. I think there’s been this perception that I didn’t want to play for the national team, and that’s never been the case,” Tell said while speaking to the Super Eagles media team.
“I’ve just been unfortunate with an injury happening the last time I got called up.”
The 25-year-old, who made his debut for Nigeria in 2023, reiterated his commitment to the national team.
“I’m happy. I’m happy to be here, happy to be back, and always happy and honoured to represent,” he added.
“I mean, it gives me a chance to connect, connect to my roots, represent the country of my family, myself, and gives me a chance to play with pride.”
Tella underscored the pride and honour that comes with wearing the iconic green and white jersey of Nigeria.
“I’m able to play for my country, and I’m able to play with some of the best players in the country. So, it’s a brilliant opportunity for me to improve as a player and also experience new things.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s ongoing qualifying campaign, he acknowledged, “It’s been frustrating looking in, watching what’s happening with the team because I know how hard we want to work and how much we want to get to the World Cup. So we can only focus on what we can control.
“Now, it’s a chance for us to, you know, make it right, play some games, win some games. And I’ve always wanted to play games. This is one of the biggest rivalries in Africa, so to be a part of it is always a special feeling for me.”
