The Super Eagles manager faces a selection problem ahead of next month’s qualifiers after Josh Maja joined a growing list of in-form Nigerian strikers in Europe
Josh Maja announced himself to the Premier League in perfect style after he scored a brace as Fulham stunned Everton 2-0 at Goodison Park.
On a day which saw five Nigerians in the matchday squad and four on the pitch if one counts Ademola Lookman and Tosin Adarabioyo, it was Maja that stood out.
The 22-year-old joined Fulham on loan from Bordeaux on deadline day and made his debut as a substitute in the boring draw against West Ham last weekend.
However, on his first league start, Maja delivered a man of the match performance to help the struggling Cottagers secure three valuable points.
Fulham started on the front foot, but could not find the breakthrough in the opening half. However, three minutes after the restart., Maja put Scott Parker’s side ahead.
It was a goal made in Nigeria as the former Sunderland attacker combined with his international teammate, Ola Aina, to slide in a low cross into the net.
While Everton were favourites on paper, it was Fulham that doubled their advantage, and once again through their new man.
The Nigerian international tapped home into an empty net after Harrison Reed’s shot hit the post only to fall into the Nigerian’s path.
It was indeed a brilliant performance from Maja and has now given Super Eagles manager, Gernot Rohr, something to think about ahead of next month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The England-born star has not played for Nigeria since he made his debut in the 2019 friendly game against Ukraine, but he could be set for a recall should he maintain this form.
This post was last modified on February 14, 2021 10:08 pm