President of Remo Stars Football Club and owner of Bet9ja, Kunle Soname, has revealed that Sodiq Ismail’s Super Eagles call-up will inspire other Nigeria Premier Football League stars, Soccernet.ng reports.
There has been a shift away from selecting home-based players for the Super Eagles squad, but the appointment of Finidi George has brought NPFL players back into consideration.
The recent injury setbacks plaguing the Nigerian national team's defense created an opportunity for Sodiq Ismail, who plays for Remo Stars of Ikenne, to be called up.
The recent inclusion of the full-back, a standout player for the Ogun State-based club, in the Super Eagles squad has been met with widespread acclaim and seen as a significant morale booster for the NPFL.
Ismail’s call-up is part of the 23-man squad selected by Coach Finidi for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Benin Republic and South Africa.
Soname, in a report by The Encounter, highlighted the importance of this move for local league players.
“Well, it’s a good development, no doubt. It will further encourage the local ones to put in a bit more effort. It’s also an encouragement to know that all their efforts are not going unnoticed and people are looking at them, they are watching, and they are good enough to be selected. So it’s a good encouragement for them,” he said.
Reflecting on Sodiq’s selection, Soname expressed optimism about the young player’s potential contributions to the Super Eagles.
“Well, it’s of course good news. In the first place, it is good news. But what is more important is for him to go there as a young kid to make his name and make a meaningful contribution to the team because that’s the most important thing,” he added.
Many football fans have praised the inclusion of Ismail, believing he will make a significant impact on the national team in the absence of Ola Aina.
