Zaidu Sanusi: Ex-Porto boss explains what makes Super Eagles star special

Sérgio Conceição has praised Zaidu Sanusi’s pace and ability to cover the left side of the pitch, recalling why he pushed for the Nigerian defender during his time as FC Porto coach, Soccernet.ng reports.

The former Porto boss was speaking on a DAZN programme on Thursday when he looked back at the club’s 2-0 Champions League win over Bayer Leverkusen in October 2022.

Conceição explains why he trusted Zaidu Sanusi

Conceição was asked about Sanusi and rejected the idea that the Nigerian was simply a player who had been given chances without proving his value.

“Zaidu a spoiled brat? Honestly, I don't think so. He's proven otherwise. The proof of my insistence is that he's still at FC Porto today and is useful to FC Porto,” Conceição said, per OneFootball.

He then pointed to the physical quality that has been one of Sanusi's most noticeable traits since he arrived in Portugal.

“Physically, he's above average, extremely fast. He runs down the left flank incredibly well,” the former Porto coach added.

Conceição remains convinced that Sanusi's pace allow him to play a demanding role on Porto’s left side. He can defend deep, move forward quickly and cover large areas when the team changed from defence to attack.

The Super Eagles full-back joined Porto in August 2020 from Santa Clara after developing through Portuguese football. He had arrived in Portugal in 2016 and spent time with Gil Vicente and Mirandela before moving to Santa Clara. He played 27 matches and scored once during the 2019/20 season before earning his move to the Portuguese champions.

His Porto career has included important moments. In May 2022, he scored the goal that sealed Porto’s 1-0 win at Benfica and confirmed the club as Portuguese champions. Porto later renewed his contract until 2027.

His honours with Porto now include two Portuguese league titles, two Portuguese Cups, two Super Cups and a League Cup.