Foreign-based players eager for NPFL return, says ex-West Brom striker Ideye

Former West Bromwich Albion striker Brown Ideye has disclosed that several foreign-based Nigerian players have expressed interest in returning to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Soccernet.ng reports.

Eighteen years after departing for Europe from Ocean Boys in 2006, the former Nigeria international has made his way back to the domestic league, joining nine-time NPFL champions Enyimba FC.

With this move, Ideye follows in the footsteps of Ahmed Musa as one of the foreign-based players who returned to the NPFL to conclude their football careers.

After making his debut for Enyimba, Ideye shared his excitement about returning to the league where his professional journey began.

“It was good. I was expecting to enter early in the game. But I will say that the coach knows better,” said the former Olympiacos forward.

The striker also revealed that his decision to return has sparked interest among other Nigerian players based abroad.

“…I received a lot of messages from other players playing abroad. They too are looking forward to be part of this thing that is going on, which is foreign players coming back to play. So I think it is something good,” he added.

Ideye’s debut came during Enyimba’s domestic league clash against Bendel Insurance, which ended in a goalless draw. He replaced Chinedu Ufere in the 85th minute of the match.

The former Malaga player will now aim for increased playing time when Enyimba resumes their campaign for the second half of the season on January 19.