The Super Eagles of Nigeria’s goalkeeping challenge may soon be over with the emergence of English-born Canadian raised Owen Olamidayo Goodman.
The 18-years old Crystal Palace star, who rose from the club’s academy, has been described as nothing but a reliable goalkeeper for Paddy McCarthy’s Under-18 Crystal Palace side.
Goodman’s performances have seen him graduate from the Academy to the club’s main team in the current 2022/23 season.
Owen Olamidayo Goodman is a man spoilt with choice when it comes to his international football career.
The goalkeeper was born in Canada to a Nigerian Mother and British Father.
This means he can represent Canada, Nigeria and England for his international career.
A young goalkeeper with a clear head and directions opened up on how he’ll arrive at a decision. “Whoever Calls me first, I will honour the invite, ”Goodman declared.
When pushed further on the possibility of Nigeria, Owen gave an emphatic answer.
”I will be glad to play for my country (Nigeria) if I get the opportunity I will grab it.”
Since Vincent Enyeama retired, the Super Eagles have struggled to find a decent replacement, with the position exchanging hands between Francis Uzoho and Maduka Okoye for the most part while the.likes of Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Daniel Akpeyi have also been tried for the position without success.
Goodman made 19 league appearances for the Under-18s during the 2021/22 campaign, keeping six clean sheets.
Internationally he has been recognised internationally by England Under-18s.
Goodman made 19 league appearances for the Under-18s during the 2021/22 campaign, keeping six clean sheets as Rob Quinn’s side finished third in the U18 Premier League South.
Following the campaign he began to train regularly with the first-team and featured in the pre-season sides against Gillingham and Ipswich Town.