Interview With Dele Aiyenugba

After gaining promotion to the Israeli top flight with his club, Bnei Yehuda, SL10.ng caught up with out-of-favour Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba. The 31-year-old talks about their return to the Ligat ha’Al, his targets for next season, and of course he says he’s still looking forward to return to the Super Eagles. Enjoy.

Sl10: Congratulations on your promotion to the Israeli top flight. Can you share your experience with us and tell us how it feels?

Aiyenugba: Thank you very much for having me. It has been a good experience for everybody at the club but I wouldn’t say it has been an easy one. It has been a difficult season to be honest and we’ve had to fight off competition and win as many games as possible and I thank God that we have returned to the Premier League. The fans and everybody are so happy and I’m really excited to be returning to the first league.

Sl10: Does this have any special meaning to you as a person?

Aiyenugba: Yes because a lot of people were surprised when I remained with the club after we got relegated and they thought that was the end for me but gaining promotion back to the first league has shown that it isn’t over for me and I really thank God for his grace and I also than all those who supported and encouraged me. I’m so grateful.

Sl10: So what targets have you set for yourselves in the top flight next season?

Aiyenugba: We first have to be stable in the league next season and if we get some good results along the line, the expectation will be to get a European ticket. It will be nice to come to the top league and get a European ticket immediately but first we have to remain in the league as that is the first target and we will take it on from there.

Sl10: In the course of helping your club gain promotion, you also have been one of the most active Nigerian players abroad. Do you think any of these will you return to the Super Eagles?

Aiyenugba: This is not for me to say. I have done well for my club this season which has resulted in us gaining promotion and if the coaches feel they need me to return, I’m always ready to represent my country. I’m sure every player wants to play for their country because it is a great privilege and if they call me, I’m very ready to serve my country.

Sl10: So does this mean you’re expecting to see your name on the list when Keshi announces the list of players for the AFCON qualifier against Chad?

Aiyenugba: (Laughs) Like I said I will always be ready if they call me because I’ve always had an open mind that I could make a return someday and truth be told, I hope I’m invited but that depends on the coach and what he wants. If he thinks he needs me, I will sure be available.

Sl10: Thanks for your time, Dele.

Aiyenugba: You’re welcome. Thanks a lot.