Millwall star nominated for EFL Best Player award, boosts Super Eagles call-up chances

Millwall winger Femi Azeez has been shortlisted for the 2025–26 EFL Championship Player of the Season award following a spectacular campaign, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 24-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough spell since joining Millwall from Reading in August 2024. What began as a fresh start has quickly turned into a standout campaign, with Azeez becoming one of the most important players in his team’s push for promotion.

Millwall manager Alex Neil has even described him as the club’s ‘talisman’, with Azeez bagging eight goals and eight assists to take his total goal contributions 16 in 30 appearances.

One of his best spells came in February 2026, when he was named Championship Player of the Month after delivering five goal contributions in five matches. His pace, direct running, and eye for goal have made him a constant threat to defenders.

Still, the award will not be easy to win. Azeez is up against strong competition, including Coventry City goalkeeper Carl Rushworth, Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney, and Swansea City striker Žan Vipotnik, who is currently the league’s top scorer.

The winner will be announced at the EFL Awards ceremony, where Neil is also in the running for Manager of the Season — further proof of Millwall’s impressive year.

Super Eagles call-up now within reach for Millwall star

Azeez’s fine form in England placed him on the radar of Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle last year. However, the former Reading star missed Nigeria’s squad to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Now, Azeez’s nomination for one of the Championship’s top individual prizes has strengthened his chances of earning a call-up to the Nigeria national football team.

Eligible to represent Nigeria through his father, Azeez is reportedly among a group of new players being closely monitored ahead of the June 2026 international window. With the Super Eagles looking to rebuild, this could be the right moment for him.

Head coach Eric Chelle has made it clear he wants fresh energy in his squad.

Azeez fits that profile perfectly. His attacking output, combined with his ability to create chances, makes him an exciting option. At Millwall, he often plays on the right wing, cutting inside onto his stronger left foot, a style that could work well alongside forwards like Victor Osimhen.

He also brings creativity. With a high number of chances created this season, he could ease the pressure on midfielders such as Alex Iwobi, who has often carried the creative burden for Nigeria.

Just as importantly, Azeez has the energy and work rate that Chelle demands. The Championship is known for its physical and fast-paced football, and Azeez has shown he can cope, and thrive, in that environment.

There were earlier reports that he had been contacted before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations but chose to focus on club football. Now, however, the timing looks right. His performances, recognition, and growing confidence all point in one direction.

If he continues at this level, a first Super Eagles call-up may not be far away.