Playing for Nigeria ‘a really welcome boost’, says Ikeme

Side-lined Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, admits playing for the Super Eagles of Nigeria have kept him going in recent months.

The 29-year-old has made just three Championship appearances this season for Wolves with Arsenal on loan keeper Emiliano Martinez largely preferred in goal by manager Kenny Jackett.

Ikeme has a new focus which he admitted was good timing, as he endures a frustrating time on the bench at Wolves.

“I’m really enjoying it. I’ve not been able to play that much with Wolves this season so getting a few games for Nigeria has kept me going really,” he told the Express & Star.

“It’s been a really welcome boost. Obviously I’ve not been playing much, it’s not easy, so it gives me a week or 10-day break to go away and give me something else to focus on.”

He has played Nigeria’s last four matches, keeping two clean sheets after earning his first cap against Tanzania in September.

With long-time No 1 Vincent Enyeama retiring from international football earlier this month, Ikeme has an opportunity to claim the jersey for himself.

“Hopefully, I can establish myself. I’m not sure about the situation with Vincent, if I get to play it’s an honour and, hopefully, I can continue to build on the first four games,” he said.

“Obviously everyone dreams of playing in the African Cup of Nations or a World Cup and, ultimately, that is the aim.

“But, at the moment, I’m just concentrating on the next matches in November.”

The Super Eagles of Nigeria and Sihlangu Semnikati of Swaziland will clash under floodlights at the Somhlolo National Stadium in Lobamba, in their 2018 FIFA World Cup African Round 2 first leg tie.

The game has been fixed to start at 7 pm Swazi time (6 pm Nigeria time) on Friday, November 13 at the 20,000-capacity Somhlolo Stadium, which is an all-standing arena.