Super Eagles: Ola Aina reacts to Isaac James threat at left-back – “It’s not a charity case”

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has reacted to coach Eric Chelle's decision to call up new left-back Isaac James for Nigeria's upcoming games against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, Soccernet.ng reports.

​Aina is returning to the Super Eagles fold for the first time since last September, when he sustained a severe hamstring injury that troubled him throughout the remainder of last season's campaign.

​In his absence, coach Eric Chelle rotated the right-back position among Benjamin Fredrick, Bright Osayi-Samuel, and Abdullahi Bewene. But now that he is back, he is the odds-on favourite to man the right-back spot for the upcoming games against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.

​However, he is sure to face stiff competition from Bright Osayi-Samuel and new invitee James, who has been in fine form for Alverca in the Portuguese Liga. The 22-year-old is solid in 1v1 situations, crosses the ball well, and boasts an immense work rate.

​Nevertheless, Aina is not concerned about losing his place to James. Rather, he is pleased to see new players get integrated into the Nigerian senior team setup and grow.

​What Ola Aina Said About Super Eagles New Invitee Isaac James

​Speaking exclusively to Soccernet.ng, Aina expressed his delight at having new players in the Super Eagles squad.

​He even added that he had already spoken to James.

​”I spoke to Isaac James, it's good to have new faces, new young talent pushing the country forward,” Aina told Soccernet.ng.

​”It's very good, I think it's good for the team, it's good for the players, it's good for the nation.

​”We have great talent out there, and they are able to showcase that in the Super Eagles.

​”Everyone is here for a reason, it's not a charity case. If you're picked for the Nigerian national team, it's a privilege, it means you're doing something right. Hopefully, they can grow and learn from the experienced ones,” the Nottingham Forest star added.

Ola Aina sits down to discuss his Super Eagles return, the new boys in camp, and former NFFC teammate Taiwo Awoniyi. 🇳🇬🎙️ pic.twitter.com/gFUedMJVDJ

— Soccernet.ng (@soccernet_ng) September 23, 2026

​Aina is currently the oldest left-back in the squad, so there are definitely a lot of things that James can learn from him.

​But above all, they will be looking to grab the maximum three points against Madagascar in Uyo on Friday.