UD Leganes of Spain youngster, Chidozie Awaziem has come out with a startling confession that would surely catch all Nigerians by surprise, as the lad on loan from FC Porto of Porugal says he is not a defender, megasportsarena.com reports.
Although he was known to play ion central defence with Porto, before getting his first invitation to the Super Eagles, and then excelled as right-back in Gernot Rohr’s bronze-winning squad at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Awaziem says his actual position on the field of play is in midfield.
While many Nigerians would say this confession explains why Awaziem was guilty of crucial errors in Eagles’ 2-0 loss to South Afirca in his early days with the team as well as a howler during victory over Argentina in a famous international friendly, the dreadlocks-wearing lad has since settled down into playing well as a stopper alongside Kenneth Omeruo at Leganes.
Despite it all, Awaziem hinted that, as he looks towards either continuing on loan with Leganes beyond this summer or returning to Porto for the next campaign, he could be seeking to play his preferred position as a defensive midfielder.
Having already played 18 league games in the current season, there is a strong possibility of him staying at Leganes beyond this season, either on loan again or in a full contract, but Awaziem is of a view that the remaining part of the currently suspended campaign will determine what will happen to him in the summer, even as he stressed which position he would love to play.
Awaziem concluded: “It all depends on how the season ends. If the club decides to extend my contract, we could do it. I feel comfortable here. It is one of the best leagues in the world and we will fight to escape relegation. My favourite position is the defensive midfield position. I was a defensive midfielder in Porto but the coach decided to use me in central defence.”