Football
Peter Etebo Opens Up: Handling Criticism and the Desire for Super Eagles Return
Peter Etebo shares how he handles criticism and expresses his desire to return to the Super Eagles, staying true to his style of play regardless of challenges.
Image Credits: Gualter Fatia/Getty Images
In the world of professional football, few things are as exhilarating as the call-up to represent one’s national team.
For players like Oghenekaro Etebo, this honour is accompanied by a unique set of challenges, including scrutiny from fans and the media.
Etebo, a talented midfielder known for his tenacity on the pitch, opened up to SportsBoom about how he navigates the pressures of public opinion while maintaining his passion for the game.
He reflects on the joy of being selected for the Super Eagles, the resilience required to handle criticism, and his unwavering commitment to his style of play, regardless of circumstances.
Embracing Criticism with Resilience
Etebo shared insights on managing the criticism he faces regarding his selection for the national team.
"It's a thing of joy to get called up. Even when you get criticized, it's normal for people to talk," he said, acknowledging the challenges that come with the spotlight.
"Oh, what is he doing here? Why did they call him? Why is this player called up. Sometimes, they kill you with criticism,” he told SportsBoom.com.
"But heads up, like someone said; there's no player that's been there that wasn't criticized more.”
It's just left for you to prove your mettle when on the pitch, give your best.
Peter Etebo
The Passion for the Super Eagles
The talented midfielder expressed his enthusiasm for potentially returning to the Super Eagles.
"Yea, the thing is, I'd love to play for the Super Eagles again. It is one team that if I get a call-Staying True to His Game
Etebo clarified that a return to the national team wouldn't alter his style of play.
"If I get a call-up back to the Super Eagles, no matter what it is, regardless of what it is, I'm still going to be the same Etebo, just to give my best."
up again, I'd be happy with it."
Etebo emphasized his commitment, stating, "As for me, I won't lie to you, and I'm being honest, God is my witness."
Staying True to His Game
Etebo clarified that a return to the national team wouldn't alter his style of play.
"If I get a call-up back to the Super Eagles, no matter what it is, regardless of what it is, I'm still going to be the same Etebo, just to give my best."
But, if I don't get a call-up, it's fine also. Because, obviously, my major target is for me to get back on the pitch.
Peter Etebo
Gbemidepo Popoola, is a freelance Sport Journalist with multiple years of experience in Writing, Reportage and Broadcasting. Gbemidepo's major concentration is telling the local Nigerian Sporting stories, in its own Unique way. This is because he believes, "no one, can tell our story better than ourselves".