Another ex-international Brown Ideye set to light up NPFL

By Tosin Omojola

The number of ex-internationals returning home to feature in the Nigerian domestic topflight, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), could increase in the coming days.

All things being equal, former Super Eagles forward Brown Ideye could be the latest ex-international to ply his trade in the Nigerian league.

The former West Brom striker has been training with Rivers United of Port Harcourt, and if coach Finidi George’s words are anything to go by, Ideye will soon be unveiled as a Rivers United player.

“Brown is a player I’ve known for years, and his experience speaks for itself. We thought it would be beneficial for our players, especially the younger ones, to learn from someone who has competed at the highest level,” said Finidi, as the former Super Eagles winger is fondly called.

Speaking further about Ideye, Finidi, a UEFA Champions League winner with Ajax Amsterdam, said:

“It wasn’t just about his skill set but the professionalism and work ethic he brings to the table. That’s something every team needs, especially as we aim for success this season.”

He revealed that Ideye has already made an immediate impact since he started training with the Pride of Rivers.

“You can see the younger players trying to impress, learning from his movement, his tactical awareness, and his ability to handle pressure. Brown is very approachable, and he’s been open to giving advice and sharing his experience from Europe and the national team,” concluded the Rivers United coach.

If the deal goes through, Ideye will be joining the ranks of former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi, who have both returned home to play for Kano Pillars.

Musa has made an instant impact in the NPFL, scoring goals for the Sai Masu Gida and helping the team perform well in the eight-week-old 2024/25 season.