Paul Onuachu has opened up on his initial exclusion from the Super Eagles 23-man list for the upcoming 2022 African Cup of Nations qualifiers against the Benin Republic and Lesotho.

The KRC Genk’s attacker was initially overlooked by coach Gernot Rohr for the AFCON qualifiers, despite scoring 27 goals in all competitions for his club this campaign.

The exclusion of the lanky forward caused reactions in the media, but he was later handed a late call back into the squad after UD Almeria’s top striker Sodiq Umar pulled out.

In an exclusive interview with brila.net, Onuachu said he wasn’t disappointed to be left out of the team, because Nigeria is blessed with many great players.

“I did not feel disappointed, because I already spoke to the Coach, he called me and he told me that I’ve been amazing at my Club and he gave me reasons, which I understand because of course, we have a lot of football players all over the World.”

“The way he gave me a chance to come to prove myself against Egypt of course other players are opportune to be given the same chance. He explained that to me, which I thought was a good idea. So when he explained I told him I’ll keep working hard and he is the Coach and knows what’s best for the team; it’s your decision and I thoroughly understand why I was not on the first list.” He told brila.net.

Despite being prolific for his club, goals continue to evade Onuachu in the national team since scoring in his debut against Egypt on 26th March 2019.

On the goal drought, Onuachu said:

“Of course as a striker, you always need to score when you’re called upon and when I have the chance to play, definitely in my head I want to score, but if it doesn’t come, I’ll keep working hard for the next one.” He concluded.