Thomas vows to keep Eagles’ shirt
by Humphrey Njoku 14 December 2012, 12:05
Super Eagles' goalkeeper, Femi Thomas has said he will justify the confidence manager, Stephen Keshi reposed in him with the national team call-up.
Thomas is among the 24 domestic players Keshi handed a call-up in his pre-Africa Cup of Nations programme.
The Enyimba goalkeeper said he will not allow the golden offer to cement a place in the 2013 Afcon-bound side slip off his hand.
“This is a rare offer; I’m determined to make the best out of it. I know it was hard work that opened the door to the Eagles. I know, too, that the only key that will keep me there is hard work, so I’m ready to earn more respect and cement a shirt by going the extra mile in training.
“I may not certainly be the best goalkeeper in the land, I feel lucky being called upon more so to help the coach succeed in his Afcon assignment I won’t let him down.
“I’m ready for the expected challenges in camp; I’m here to stay and not to warm or add up the number. I’m simply excited,” said the former Nigerian Olympic team goalkeeper to supersport.com.
Thomas, who had a season stint at Akwa United, said the two-time African champions have a bright chance to earn their third title at South Africa.
“The Eagles are capable of earning their third title at South Africa 2013. Extra work and determination are keys as the tools to do the job abound,” said the former Ocean Boys’ goal tender.
The Eagles are in Group C together with title-holders, Zambia, Burkina Faso and Ethiopia.
The Afcon camp for domestic lads will open on Sunday in Abuja while the yet-to-be named foreign-based players will join camp in Faro, Portugal for final phase of preparations.
