The eyes of Nigeria, Africa and the world will be on Rangers’ Joe Aribo as he takes his place in the Super Eagles starting line-up for their AFCON opener against Egypt.
His importance to Nigeria’s hopes for the African Cup of Nations has been reflected with the number 10 squad number which will be worn by the talented London-born player.
The maverick Rangers attacker will get an early chance to impress against Egypt, led by their talisman Mo Salah in the game taking place at the 30,000 capacity Stade Roumde Adjia in Garoua, Cameroon.
Aribo will line-up alongside the likes of Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho of Leicester, Taiwo Awoniyi of Union Berlin and Samuel Chukwueze of Europa League holders Villarreal.
Stage
From a Rangers perspective, more eyes and more clubs will be exposed to the serious pedigree of Joe Aribo whose profile will be raised significantly if his performances do himself justice. Whilst this is unlikely to directly translate to a January bid received at Ibrox for his services, it cannot be ruled out.
Any potential move would not be welcome now given Aribo’s importance to Rangers title retention hopes but whether this month or at the end of the season, it will take a very substantial offer to prise the key asset away from Glasgow.
If and when that does happen, another stunning piece of business is almost guaranteed for the player acquired from Charlton, on a four year deal, back in Summer 2019 for a modest compensation fee, said to be around £300k.
OFFICIAL: Nigeria's XI vs. Egypt.#NGAEGY | #TeamNigeria | #AFCON2021 pic.twitter.com/cCfqCEULPT
— Soar Super Eagles (@SSE_NGA) January 11, 2022
The game kicks off at 4pm (UK) and is live on Sky Sports as well as BBC Red Button.