Ikeme: Playing for Nigeria is dream come true

Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, has described playing for the Super Eagles of Nigeria as a “dream come true”.  

The 29-year-old was widely lauded for his international debut and hailed as the long-term successor for Vincent Enyeama, after keeping clean sheets in the Super Eagles’ African Cup of Nations qualifier with Tanzania and the friendly game with Niger Republic.

Now back at Wolves and preparing for Saturday’s game at Bolton Wanderers, Ikeme has set his sights on appearing for Nigeria on a regular basis.

“I hope to continue from where I left off if given the chance,” he said.

“All I can say is it was indeed a great feeling putting on that jersey for Nigeria and a dream come true for me. The team is young so we can expect better results as we go along.

“Playing in your first game for a team like Nigeria is not easy because there are many expectations that include filling the big shoes left by Vincent Enyeama, who has been amazing for us.

“I am glad I kept a clean sheet and wish to take time out to thank my team-mates who have been amazing and welcomed me from the moment I arrived.

“I have settled in well [with the Super Eagles]. My family are from Nigeria and it’s not like I dropped from the moon or something. I try a lot of Nigerian food and I feel very Nigerian.”

Former Nigerian striker, Nwankwo Kanu, hailed the Sutton Coldfield-born keeper.

“It is true that we did not win the match, but we gain a son,” he said.

“He was wonderful. We finally got the keeper we have been waiting for.

“We know Enyeama will not be around forever, so it is good that he was discovered now. I wish him well.”