A former international, Patrick Pascal, has heaped praises on Super Eagles invitee, Gift Orban, describing the Gent of Belgium forward as a highly talented player who is going to add value to the team’s attack.
Orban, born to a Nigerian father and Togolese mother honed his football skills in Togo from where he moved to Europe.
After impressing at second division Norwegian side Stabaek, he moved to Gent in January and has hit the ground running with 20 goals in 22 matches.
His performance made Jose Peseiro to reward him with his first-ever invitation to the Super Eagles for the return leg of 2024 AFCON qualifier played last Sunday in Uyo.
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Although he didn’t make his debut in the 6-0 thrashing of Sao Tome, Orban has earned applause from Pascal who said he deserved his invitation to the senior national team.
In a chat with Daily Trust yesterday, the Chairman of the Bauchi State Football Association said “That boy (Orban) is something else. My brother, that boy is a good player.
“He is very fast. He possesses almost all the qualities of a top striker. If he goes in front of you, it will be difficult for you to stop him. He is extremely fast.
“Nigerians missed the opportunity to watch him but I am sure they will watch him very soon. The good thing is that he is also eager to show Nigerians the stuff he is made of.”
Pascal also encouraged other foreign based players who are eligible to play for Nigeria to emulate the exemplary behaviour of Orban.
According to him, the player who is presently the interest of Premiership giants, Tottenham didn’t think twice when he was called up to the Super Eagles.
“Another thing that has endeared him to me is his patriotism. He didn’t make things difficult for anyone. He has shown clearly that he wants to play for his fatherland.
“In fact, he is loved by everyone in camp. It didn’t take him long to bond with the rest of the squad. He has a bright future ahead of him with the Super Eagles,” said Pascal.
