Super Eagles striker proves manager Guion right with brilliant brace at Stade Michel d’Ornano

The Nigeria international has flourished under the guidance of his ever-supportive manager despite facing intense criticisms

Super Eagles forward Josh Maja delivered an outstanding individual performance, scoring both of his side’s goals, in Girondins Bordeaux’s 2-2 draw at Caen on Tuesday evening.

Ahead of the matchday 18 meeting at the Stade Michel d’Ornano, Bordeaux manager David Guion had applauded Maja as one of the most important elements to a successful season for the club.

Coach Guion’s public support for Maja became necessary following calls from some sections for the Nigerian footballer to be deployed as a winger and not as a striker.

Buoyed by the public vote of confidence from his manager, Maja took the fight to Caen’s defenders from the blast of the referee’s kickoff whistle.

And the 23-year-old was rewarded in the fourth minute when he pounced on an Alberth Elis pass to break the deadlock for the visitors.

Maja continued to be a dangerous presence in the opposition’s box and, in the 25th minute, the former Sunderland targetman doubled Bordeaux’s advantage with another composed finish.

But Caen fought back after the break, helped in no small part by the dismissal of Bordeaux fullback Clement Michelin, to draw level with the visitors and earn a share of the spoils.