Collins faces serious competition for a place in Jose Peseiro’s starting eleven, but he is pretty relaxed
Super Eagles defender Jamilu Collins has stated that he is undisturbed by the competition he faces for the left-back position, Soccernet reports.
The Super Eagles play Lesotho and Zimbabwe in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers later this month, and coach Jose Peseiro invited 23 players for the game.
Cardiff City man Collins made the squad after missing out on Nigeria’s friendly games against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique last month.
The 29-year-old defender has made 14 appearances for Cardiff City in the Championship, and he could fancy his chances of getting a starting shirt against Lesotho or Zimbabwe.
Boavista star Onyemaechi started at left-back for Nigeria during the last international break, and he was quite impressive. But he is currently unavailable for the games against Lesotho and Zimbabwe because he is nursing an injury. This means that Collins is in pole position to start the two games for Nigeria. However, he could face serious competition for a starting shirt when Onyemaechi returns.
Nonetheless, Collins is not bothered, as he has stated that he is only concerned with the outcomes of the games.
“We are in the national team, and there is no competition here, it is just for one of us to come and give our best for our nation,” Collins said per NFF TV
“Whosoever is called to play will always give his best. So I don’t think there’s any competition. We are one country, so we are here to make our country proud.”
With the Africa Cup of Nations just weeks away, Peseiro has to decide on his first choice left-back. Porto star Zaidu Sanusi just returned from an injury layoff and will be in the mix. Empoli defender Tyrone Ebuehi would also be looking to book a spot.
