​”To compete” – Arthur Okonkwo sends bold message to Nwabali, Okoye over Super Eagles No. 1 spot

Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has indicated that he would always maintain a positive attitude toward his teammates in the competition for the number one shirt in any team he is in, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Okonkwo’s nationality switch to Nigeria was confirmed earlier this week by FIFA after months of speculation about his international future.

The 24-year-old shot-stopper was born in England to Nigerian parents, making him eligible for either of the two nations.

Earlier in his career, he chose England, representing them across different youth levels. But since he failed to get a look-in for the senior team, he chose to switch to Nigeria.

​However, even the Super Eagles is not a guarantee for him, as there are a few options ahead of him in the pecking order.

​Stanley Nwabali is the first-choice shot-stopper, Udinese’s Maduka Okoye is second, and Francis Uzoho is third. Usually, for a coach to displace one keeper for another, the difference would need to be clear—both in training and game situations. That is the task now facing Okonkwo.

​Arthur Okonkwo Promises Positive But Competitive Environment

​Arthur Okonkwo is expected to be called up to the Super Eagles for the friendly games in June. This will be a prime opportunity to prove his quality to coach Eric Chelle.

​It is not the first time that the Hale End Academy product has had to prove himself. When he first arrived at Wrexham, he had to earn his place before eventually securing the starting shirt.

In a recent interview, Okonkwo noted that he loves to compete on the training ground, but he also values maintaining a good relationship with his teammates.

​”Obviously we’re competing against each other, but you have to remember that we are human beings,” Okonkwo said on the Wrexham Podcast.

​”I feel it’s not right if it’s toxic between goalkeepers. There have been situations where that has happened, but I’ve been lucky not to be in that kind of situation.

​”We can compete with each other, but we can be friends as well.”

​Meanwhile, the 24-year-old will be focused on helping his side secure a strong finish to the Championship campaign.

​Wrexham currently sit seventh in the league, two points off a playoff spot. If Okonkwo can help them win their last five games of the campaign, they will definitely be in the mix for Premier League promotion.