2010 W/Cup: Ike Uche Ready, Raving To Go

Real Zaragoa striker Ike Uche has denied reports in the local media that he is battling with a fresh injury concern ahead of Nigeria’s 2010 World Cup camp.

Uche is angry with reports which suggest he has been out of Real Zaragoza last two matches due to an undisclosed injury.

The 26-year-old only just returned from almost seven month lay-off for Real Zaragoza in late April and has been a regular fixture in the training squad.

But two days after being named in the Nigeria provisional World Cup squad, the forward is rocked by rumours and speculations regarding his absence in club action.

“I do not know where these stories have come from,” he said. “There is nothing at all wrong at the moment. I have been training like other players and feel perfectly okay.

“I was given the all-clear in March and since then there has been nothing to worry about for me or the doctors.”

Fears over Uche’s fitness surfaced when he was not included Real Zaragoza’s back to back fixtures against Espanyol and Xerez on 6 and 8 May respectively.

The fact that it became a constant discussion back home in Nigeria left the player and his club bewildered.

“I was in the team for our game against Deportivo La Conma at the Riazor ten days ago but the coach decides who travels and play not me,” said Uche.

Uche is now looking forward to Saturday’s final game of the season at Estadio La Romareda against visiting Villarreal who are chasing a Europa League spot.

With one mind in Spain, the forward is also casting an eye on the challenges ahead in the coming weeks for country.

“It will surely be a tough encounter; they (Villarreal) want a place in Europe, and we are seeking a better finish in the league,” Uche added.

“Hopefully I will get a chance to play on Saturday, move to the next phase, which of course is to switch the mindset towards the fight for a place at the World Cup.

“Everyone wants a chance to be in South Africa but only form, fitness, determination and hard work will take me there.

“That is all I can say because previous performance counts for nothing if you cannot prove to the coaches that you deserve a place in the team.

“I wish other players all the best because it will be a healthy competition for a place on the plane to South Africa, and if everyone is fit to fight then the country gains.”

Nigeria, who are struggling to schedule warm-up matches, face Argentina, Greece and South Korea in Group B at this summer World Cup.