Super Eagles: George Ilenikhena’s 3 biggest strengths as a striker

George Ilenikhena has revealed the three biggest strengths he hopes to bring to the Super Eagles attack as he looks to establish himself in Nigeria’s senior national team.

The Al Ittihad forward has enjoyed a remarkable rise despite his young age, representing clubs in France and Belgium before moving to Saudi Arabia.

Now 20, Ilenikhena has already scored twice against Barcelona while playing for different clubs. He is also Nigeria’s most expensive teenage signing in history.

Last month, the forward made his Super Eagles debut and scored against Madagascar, rewarding coach Eric Chelle after weeks of efforts to bring him into the national team.

George Ilenikhena identifies his three biggest strengths

With Victor Osimhen leading Nigeria’s attacking options, George Ilenikhena faces competition for a regular place in the Super Eagles team.

However, the youngster believes his physical presence, ability to hold up play and goalscoring instincts can give Chelle another option in attack.

“I’m strong, I like to keep the ball forward, and I can score goals,” George Ilenikhena told Afrik-Foot NG.

Ilenikhena’s career statistics offer evidence of his goalscoring potential.

At Amiens SC, where he made his senior breakthrough, he scored twice in 17 appearances for the first team. He also recorded six goals in 10 games for Amiens B and 11 goals in nine appearances for the club’s Under-19 side.

When he made the step up to senior level, Ilenikhena’s goals did not dry up at Monaco and Antwerp.

The youngster registered 14 goals and provided one assist in 50 matches for Antwerp before scoring 10 goals and two assists in 51 appearances for Monaco.

His early performances at Al Ittihad have also been encouraging. He has recorded seven goals and three assists in 17 appearances across all competitions for the Saudi Arabian club.