Tremendous Eagles defender Vibrant Osayi-Samuel has named Chelsea and England full-back Reece James as his position mannequin, praising the defender’s all-round qualities.
Reece James performed a key position in Chelsea’s 2025 FIFA Membership World Cup marketing campaign after getting back from a protracted spell out injured. The proper-back had missed many matches between 2023 and 2025 on account of recurring hamstring issues earlier than making a powerful comeback.
Osayi-Samuel, who has turn into Nigeria’s first-choice right-back on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, stated James stands out due to his skill to each defend and assault. The Nigerian worldwide stepped into the position after Ola Aina suffered a hamstring damage, whereas younger defender Benjamin Frederick is sidelined with a knee drawback.
The Birmingham Metropolis full-back featured in two of Nigeria’s group-stage matches earlier than Ryan Alebiosu made his debut within the last group sport towards Uganda.
Talking about his inspirations, Osayi-Samuel stated Reece James has the entire ability set required of a contemporary full-back.
“He has the whole lot. He can defend, assault, and even play in midfield. He’s the complete package deal,” he stated. Osayi-Samuel additionally talked about former Barcelona star Dani Alves as one other participant he admired whereas rising up, significantly for his link-up play with attackers.
The defender additionally spoke about his time taking part in in Turkey, describing the rivalries as extraordinarily intense. He stated the fervour and division between golf equipment made on a regular basis interactions tough, particularly between gamers from rival groups.
Osayi-Samuel added that the extent of assist he obtained at Fenerbahce was particular and described the membership as one of many largest within the nation.
Nigeria will face Mozambique within the Spherical of 16 on the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday. The match will happen on the Complexe de Fes, with kick-off scheduled for 8:00 pm Nigerian time.
