Akpala Hopeful Of Return To S’Eagles

Joseph Akpala believes he will earn a return to the Super Eagles if he scores goals for his club in the coming season.

Akpala has failed to pile on the international caps despite making his debut in 2008, and scoring the winner against France in an international friendly in St Etienne.

A measly return of 7 goals in 31 games last season for Club Brugges has failed to impress new Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia, but Akpala believes that he can force his way inside the coach’s radar.

“I believe that if I continue to do what I know how to do best, the coach will notice me and I can get back into the team,” he said.

So far, Siasia is facing a striker deluge, with the likes of Ike Uche, Victor Anichebe, Osaze Odemwingie, Emmanuel Amuneke and Peter Utaka and Obinna Nsofor all in the contention.

Dinamo Kiev’s Brown Ideye is knocking at the door with his 15 goals last season for Sochaux and 2 so far for Kiev.

Add the prospective additions of Shola Ameobi and Victor Moses, and there is a lot of work for Akpala to do to get in. But he remains hopeful.

“Everybody wants to play in the national team, and it is not easy because there are a lot of good players there. But I just have to work hard and do my best and I’m sure it is possible.”