Joel Ajayi
Former Golden Eaglets captain Simon Cletus Karshe has taken another significant step in his budding European career after being named in HNK Rijeka’s matchday squad for Thursday’s UEFA Conference League qualifying clash against Northern Ireland’s Derry City.
The inclusion marks a major milestone for the highly-rated 18-year-old midfielder, who only signed his first professional contract with the Croatian champions a few months ago after completing his move from Nigerian side Mavlon FC.
Cletus’ rapid rise reflects the confidence the Rijeka coaching staff have in the young Nigerian, whose impressive performances during pre-season earned him a place in the squad for the crucial European fixture.
Before joining Rijeka, the talented midfielder was invited to the Flying Eagles camp, where he caught the attention of head coach Abdul Maikaba and his technical crew with a series of outstanding displays in friendly matches.
Although there were plans for Cletus to rejoin the Flying Eagles ahead of the WAFU B U-20 Championship in Côte d’Ivoire, Rijeka opted to retain the youngster as part of their preparations for the new season.
His selection for Thursday’s UEFA Conference League qualifier further underlines the important role the Croatian club expects him to play in the campaign.
Sources close to the Flying Eagles also revealed that Maikaba had considered handing the captain’s armband to Cletus had he been released to join the national team for the WAFU B tournament.
Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s brightest midfield prospects, Cletus has continued to attract praise for his composure, vision and leadership qualities.
His inclusion in Rijeka’s squad for a major European fixture is another indication that the youngster is on course for a promising professional career and could soon become a regular feature for both club and country.
