AFCON 2013: Super Eagles Player Profile – Kenneth Omeruo

By Arinze Ude

Kenneth Josiah Omeruo was born in Kaduna on October, 17 1993 but started his career at Standard Liege in Belgium. He played for Nigeria at the junior World Cup in Colombia in 2011. He was transferred to English Premier League giants, Chelsea in 2012 and was immediately loaned out to ADO Den Haag in an 18-month loan deal, which kept him at the club until the end of 2012/2013 season. He made his full International debut for Nigeria in 2012 against Cape Verde in a build-up match to the 2013 African Cup of Nations. His performance earned him a place in the final 23. He made his AFCON debut, coming on as a substitute for Brown Ideye in the 78th minute of the opening game after Efe Ambrose was red carded. He slotted into the right side of the Super Eagles’ defence. He was handed a start in centre of defence after captain, Joseph Yobo was ruled out of the Zambia game through injury. He formed a formidable understanding and partnership with Godfrey Oboabona in the centre of the defence, no wonder Joseph Yobo found it difficult to wiggle his way into the starting eleven. He man-marked Didier Drogba in the Quarter-final and kept him quiet throughout the game. His efforts earned him plaudits from his team mates, coaches and fans. Keshi had no problems starting him in the finals and letting Yobo play the last few minutes of the game. And the victory that day affirmed his good decision.