The reason behind the decision of Cardiff City defender Jamilu Collins to snub an invitation to the senior national team of Nigeria ahead of their games against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique respectively has been revealed by the player.
Collins was handed his second consecutive call up by Jose Peseiro for the friendly games, his second following his maiden invitation under the Portuguese coach for the game against Sao Tome and Principe in Uyo.
Boavista Bruno Onyemaechi got the nod to play ahead of him and impressed for the entire duration of the game, but Collins was handed another chance to fight for a spot but he declined the call up on the advice of his coach at the Championship side.
“Me not going to the national team was for my own self,” he told a press conference ahead of Cardiff City Sky Bet Championship clash against Swansea.
“I’ve been out for a long time and the gaffer told me not to because he wants me to rest due to the issues with my hamstring. I think the advice was the right one for me.
“I just play and if the national team coach is impressed with the performance, he will stick with me”, the 29 year old said.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
