INTERVIEW: I’d like to play in the World Cup again, says Ramon Azeez

When the Super Eagles list for the 2014 FIFA World Cup was made public, many Nigerians were surprised by the inclusion of Ramon Azeez, because prior to that time, he was largely unknown.

Many did not know that Azeez was playing regularly for Almeria in the La Liga before the World Cup but during the tournament, he made a decent appearance in the Eagles’ first game against Iran and was touted as one for the future.

With less than a year to another FIFA World Cup, Azeez is not in the running to be in the Super Eagles squad.

The 24-year-old recently made a surprise reappearance in the consciousness of football lovers by scoring a brilliant goal against Barcelona B in Spain’s lower division.

TheCable recently caught up with Azeez and spoke about why he has been unable to play in La Liga’s top division and consistently feature for the Super Eagles.

Congratulations on your goal against Barcelona B. How did it feel to score again?

Thank you very much. I am very happy to score my first goal here with my team and very happy that we were able to secure the three points.

Did you have a feeling you might have a good game beforehand?

Of course, before I go onto the field I do make my self happy and use whatever in my surroundings to ginger myself up. And that has always help me a lot in every game I played.

After the World Cup, many were shocked that you were no longer invited, what happened?

Well, every coach knows what they are looking for and the caliber of players they want. It’s a thing of joy for any Nigerian player that gets called up to represent the country. There is an element of luck in this profession too.

We all thought you would be playing in the main La Liga by now? What’s stopped you?

Well, it’s true that I had offers from some La Liga team but later chose to play here due to some reasons, but trust me you will see me back very soon by the special grace of God.

How frustrating is it that you could not capitalise on your World Cup participation?

I feel very grateful because when things is like this and not going the way we want it, God knows the best and He has better plans for everyone.

How was the World Cup experience?

It was a very good experience for me. I met a lot of people from diffrent countries of the world and played against some of them. It’s an experience I look forward to repeating again.

How hopeful are you that things will change positively for you?

I am working hard every day and make sure I follow each section of training to get myself on the track always.

Do you think Nigeria can qualify for the World Cup?

Of course, we will qualify because we have what it takes and we have the players who have the ability and skills to do it. And I believe that we will defeat Zambia in Uyo.

Having been in Spain all these years, do you miss Nigeria?

Of course, I do miss home sometimes but there is time for work and there is time for enjoyment. But every December and June, I am always in Nigeria to see my family.

Do you see the goal against Barcelona B as the catalyst for a return to top class football?

Not only scoring a goal but to feature in every game week in week out, that’s the most important thing right now.

What’s your view of the opinion that you’re not tall or muscular enough for top class football?

Football is not all about height. It’s about how you think and what you do with the ball when you are on the field. But being tall is an added advantage.

What players inspire you?

I grew up watching Deco, Xavi and Jay Jay Okocha because of thier style of play and their ability of passing the balls on the field of play.