New Super Eagles invitee and Lobi Stars youngster, Emmanuel Toryila Ajia has said he dreamed of playing for the Super Eagles but seeing it happen so soon in his career is a pleasant surprise. In this exclusive chat with Shot!, the silent operator in the heart of Lobi Stars midfield spoke on his experience in Eagles camp and his blossoming career. Excerpts
How did you start your football career?
I started playing football right from secondary school. I attended Government Model Secondary School Makurdi in Benue State. My school represented Benue in the Shell Cup and I was part of that team. After my secondary school, I joined an amateur club, Jasper United in Onitsha. It was former Green Eagles goalkeeper, Wahab Haruna that discovered me. He said I am a good player and if I keep my head low, I will be successful in my chosen career. So I concentrated on my game and after a year, I returned home and my present boss, Mr. Dominic Iorfa gave me a chance to start with Lobi Feeder team. From the Feeder team, I got promoted to the senior team where I am playing presently. I have spent less than three seasons in the topflight.
You are one of the new additions to the Super Eagles camp. How happy are you with this opportunity to represent your country at the senior level?
I am very happy because everything is by opportunity. The opportunity for me has come at this moment so I have to thank God and grab it with two hands. I am still young enough to play for the youth teams. Honestly, I always believed I may start from the junior level before coming up here but God in his infinite mercy has decided otherwise. It is a pleasant surprise and I give him all the glory.
What was your first reaction when you received the news?
In anything you are doing, you must have a surprise. When I was called up for this first national team camp, I was pleasantly surprised and overwhelmed with happiness. I prayed to God that when I come here, he should give me the courage and confidence to impress the coaches. I want to give out my best to the Big Boss.