Omeruo Admits Fear of Challenge posed by Messi and Aguero
By Opeyemi Oladunjoye
Super Eagles’ defender, Kenneth Omeruo has said he is not oblivious of the threats posed by World Cup opponents, especially Argentina.
The Chelsea defender, who admitted the South Americans will be tough to handle in Brazil, told ChelseaTV in an interview , what chances he believes Nigeria has in the group which also features Iran and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
He said,“It’s the first thing people say to me when they hear who we face. (Sergio) Aguero and (Lionel) Messi will be tough opponents, so we have to stay compact and strong as a team. But it is a group we can get through from, and we will look to be playing in the knockout stages.”
Omeruo also said being called up to play in the Super Eagles last year was a surprise to him but added that his experience with the team at the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil had boosted his confidence.
“It was a great experience. I only had 10 minutes of the game against Spain because I was injured, but it wasn’t a bad performance even though we lost 3-0. It was individual mistakes, and with a bit of work we can be more competitive.”
He also revealed challenges at Middlesborough – where he is away on loan with chelsea – prepared him ahead of the World Cup, saying:“Middlesbrough had a wonderful team and good management, so I blended well.
“The football was a bit physical which I had to learn as quickly as possible if I wanted to achieve anything before the World Cup, and I am very happy with everything.”
