The name Cyriel Dessers has been one on the lips of most football loving Nigerian after his declaration that he wants to play for Nigeria ahead of Belgium, where his father hails from.
22 year old Dessers trained with Belgium U-21 in 2015 but didn’t play in their European Youth Qualifiers against Moldova as he was unused substitute in the tie.
Dessers scored 29 goals and provided 13 assists last season for NAC Breda to fire them to promotion to the top flight, but was snapped up by FC Utrecht thanks to his hand in 42 goals.
He spoke with Owngoalnigeria.com senior editor Osas Mahawi on his dream to play for Nigeria and the secret behind his goal scoring feat last season, as well as his target for the new season.
OGN – Have you been formally approached by Nigeria?
Dessers – No, not yet but it would be a dream come true for me to represent Nigeria in the nearest future.
OGN – How much do you know of the current national team of Nigeria?
Dessers – I follow the selections and games, also the youth teams on big tournaments and Olympic games.
OGN – Have you met any player in the present national team of Nigeria?
Dessers – I played against Moses Simon and Wilfred Ndidi in the past in Belgium, and I have a mutual relationship with William Troost-Ekong.
OGN – What is the secret behind your goal scoring exploit last season for NAC Breda?
Dessers – I think there’s no secret. You need the feeling, hard work and a good team behind you.
OGN – Have you set a target on the amount of goal you think you will score this season with Utrecht?
Dessers – No I don’t work with a target, because there are also other items where I can be important for my team.
OGN – Thanks a lot Cyriel Dessers.
Dessers – Thank a lot sir.
Osas Mahawi
