Brentford midfielder, Frank Onyeka has revealed he has the full support of Bees head coach Thomas Frank to play at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Onyeka is one of the key stars expected to be named in Nigeria’s squad for the 2023 AFCON finals.
The 25-year-old was part of the Nigerian squad that was knocked out in the Round of 16 by Tunisia at the last edition of the tournament.
A lot of managers across Europe have previously criticised the mid-season timing of the competition.
Onyeka however claimed Frank has been encouraging and reassuring.
“He’s happy for me to represent my country on this big stage. I’m really happy that he’s also my supportive coach, letting his players go off to Afcon,” he told the BBC World Service.
The former FC Midtylland player also admitted that it is always difficult to get back into the squad after returning from the tournament.
“When you get back the team is settled, they’re playing well. Getting into the team again takes a long time,” he said.
“Mentally a player needs to be strong because it’s not easy leaving your team for four weeks and coming back.”
