Bright Osayi-Samuel Shines in Championship

Bright Osayi-Samuel is making a strong case to return to the Super Eagles after a great start to the new Championship season with Birmingham City.

The Nigerian defender stood out in Birmingham’s goalless draw against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Saturday. He played well on both offense and defense.

Osayi-Samuel recovered possession 16 times during the match, the highest for any player in the English Football League on the opening weekend. His record was five more than any other player on Matchday One, according to Opta.

At 28 years old, he also won seven out of 12 duels, completed two successful dribbles, made one clearance, and had 74 touches as Birmingham secured a point away from home.

This performance could improve Osayi-Samuel’s chances of being called back to the Super Eagles. Coach Eric Chelle will name his squad for Nigeria’s September matches soon.

Nigeria will start their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. Chelle is expected to announce his squad in the coming weeks.

Osayi-Samuel has often been a go-to player for Nigeria at right-back, especially when first-choice Ola Aina is not available.

Aina has not played for the Super Eagles since the 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa in September 2025. He also missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations due to a hamstring injury.

The Nottingham Forest defender is back to full fitness and played during pre-season. His return gives Chelle more options at right-back for the September qualifiers.

Meanwhile, Osayi-Samuel is sending a strong message at the club level. His great performance on the opening day reminds everyone of his worth to the national team.

Having last played for Nigeria in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, the Birmingham defender hopes his strong start to the Championship season will earn him a spot in Chelle’s next squad.