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•Over calls for retirement
By Ephraim Nwosu
Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has dismissed criticism of fans who are unhappy about his call up to the national team by Jose Peseiro.
The 30-year-old was named in the 23-man squad for the double-header African Cup of Nations qualifier match against the Wild Dogs of Guinea Bissau.
Following his unimpressive record with Turkish Super Lig club Sivasspor which has seen him make 13 appearances and without a goal this season, Nigerian ball fans and football pundits have questioned the rationale behind his invitation by the Portuguese tactician, but the former CSKA Moscow forward is unfazed about the uproar.
Speaking on his international future, the 30-year-old told NFF media:
“In as much as I am being invited by the coach and my body can carry me, I will continue to play for Nigeria.
“The coach who invited me knows better, and as a patriotic Nigerian, I can’t decline my national team’s invitation after so much sacrifice.
“I don’t listen to those who are clamouring for my retirement. I remain focused on my career. Whoever is invited, people must talk, so, why should I listen to their comments.”
Musa earned his 108th cap for the Super Eagles after Friday’s game against Guinea Bissau to maintain his position as Nigeria’s most capped player.
On August 5, 2010, at the tender age of 17, Musa made his Super Eagles debut in a qualification match for the 2012 African Cup of Nations against Madagascar, where he came on as a substitute for John Mikel Obi in a 2-0 win.
