Isaac James: 3 attributes Nigerians can expect from Alverca full-back

Super Eagles invitee Isaac James is keen to make his mark if Eric Chelle hands him the opportunity to come on in Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 September qualifiers, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 22-year-old was called up after Zaidu Sanusi got injured while in action for FC Porto, freeing up space for the Alverca defender to get a maiden call-up.

While Bruno Onyemaechi is undoubtedly Eric Chelle’s first choice, James wants to impress as soon as possible, and considering he plays for a club that’s not very well known in this part of the world, he revealed three attributes that Nigerian Football fans can watch out for if and when he hits the pitch.

3 attributes Nigerians can expect from Isaac James

1. Hard work

Speaking ahead of Nigeria’s clash against Madagascar, the former Lorient defender revealed he’ll give it all on the pitch if he gets an opportunity to step onto the grass at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

“For me, on the pitch, I like to give everything there. I want to help the team in any way I can, and to get all three points,” the Nigerian told Afrik-Foot.

For a player who’s hoping to take his game to the next level, he’ll be itching to get minutes, but his comments also revealed he’s level-headed. Despite his excitement, he knows what it takes to don the green and white jersey.

2. Versatility

Sanusi’s injury might have paved the way for Isaac James’ introduction into the Super Eagles setup, but he’s not just a full-back; he’s capable of playing several positions as well, so Nigerian football lovers might see him on the pitch, but in a different role to the one he plays in Portugal.

“My favourite position is left-back. I actually like to play from that position, but before the season started, our coach (Sergio Ferreira) reached out.

“Our centre-back had gotten injured, and the coach asked me if I could fill in at centre-back and I tried to play that position, but I’m actually a left-back.

Away from defensive positions, James has also had stints where he played as a wing-back, a midfielder and a winger in his career.

3. Attacking intent

Over the past three years, the Super Eagles have struggled with deliveries from full-backs into the opposition box, as most crosses are usually underhit or overhit.

Isaac James might be the player to solve that problem. He’s provided two assists in seven games for Alverca from the back this season, and the players he looks to emulate appear to have that effect on him as well.

“I like to watch Nuno Mendes and Marcelo. I like to watch those two,” he concluded.

Whether or not the versatile defender will be included in any of Chelle’s starting lineups against Madagascar or Guinea-Bissau is currently unknown, but the youngster is buzzing to get started.