Super Eagles defender Chibuike Nwaiwu has received praise from former referee and football commentator Bünyamin Gezer after helping Trabzonspor keep a second clean sheet in a row. This happened during their 2-0 win over Beşiktaş.
This victory followed a 4-0 win against Galatasaray. Both wins have come under head coach Thomas Reis. Reis focuses on strong defense and quick counter-attacks. Nwaiwu has been key to the team’s recent success.
Gezer highlighted Nwaiwu's performance when talking about the team's results. “Nwaiwu is very good in defence,” he said, as quoted by Taka Gazete.
He was particularly impressed with how Nwaiwu helped keep Trabzonspor solid in defense against some of Turkey’s top clubs. Nwaiwu has also contributed offensively this season, scoring a goal for the team.
The praise is just the latest in Nwaiwu's quick rise. He got his first Super Eagles call-up in March when he filled in for the injured Calvin Bassey during friendlies against Iran and Jordan. He credited his consistency for this opportunity.
He then made his debut for Nigeria. The chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League, Gbenga Elegbeleye, congratulated him on this achievement. His strong performance has also caught the eye of clubs in England.
Reports say Fulham, Crystal Palace, and Tottenham Hotspur were interested in him this summer. It was claimed that Fulham even agreed on personal terms with him. Trabzonspor, the Turkish Cup winners, turned down a second offer from Fulham. They insisted they would not sell him for less than their asking price. Nwaiwu decided to stay in Turkey and said he feels comfortable at the club.
His performances have increased his value. He was named the biggest winner in a recent Süper Lig market-value update. Among Nigerian defenders, only Bassey is rated higher than him.
With Trabzonspor winning, Nwaiwu aims to keep his form and continue contributing at both ends of the pitch.
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