Pisa forward Rafiu Durosinmi has described his maiden invitation to the national team as a dream come true, while identifying fellow forwards Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu and Akor Adams as strikers inspiring his career.
Durosinmi was included in the Super Eagles squad for the Unity Cup tournament in London following an impressive season split between Pisa and Czech side FC Viktoria Plzeň.
Nigeria will begin their campaign against Zimbabwe national football team on Tuesday at the Valley, with Durosinmi eager to make the most of his first opportunity with the three-time African champions.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, the forward expressed excitement over the invitation, describing it as one of the biggest moments of his career.
"I was so happy because it is a great honour out of many talents from Nigeria and all over the world," Durosimi said to the Super Eagles media team. "I sent the message to my family and my agent also and they were all happy."
"It means a lot to me. It is a great honour to put on the jersey. It is just like seeing dreams come to pass. How you dreamt about playing for your country and representing your country and now you have the chance."
The former Plzen striker also revealed his ambition to leave a lasting legacy with the national team.
"I want to finish my career as a legend, I want to be someone that plays for Super Eagles, the name they would remember. When Durosinmi played for Super Eagles, he gave his best and was one of the best. That's how I want to finish my career."
Durosinmi further disclosed that Galatasaray star Osimhen, Tranzonspor's Onuachu and Sevilla attacker Akor Adams have been key figures he looks up to as he continues to develop his game.
"I am not really someone that watches football but now watching the Super Eagles play, the person I have watched play is Osimhen and also I watch Paul Onuachu when he plays for his club and national team. And also Akor Adams is doing great. I think they are a good example for me."
Durosinmi earned his first senior national team invitation after enjoying a productive campaign in Europe.
He scored 13 goals in 30 appearances for Viktoria Plzen before completing a winter move to Pisa, where he added another goal in Serie A action.
The striker is now expected to compete for a place in attack as the Super Eagles hope to defend the Unity Cup tournament in London.
Adeyemi Adewale
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