Brentford’s Frank Onyeka gets green light from Coach for AFCON 2023 participation

Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka has shared that he has received full support from Bees head coach Thomas Frank to participate in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Expected to be a key player in Nigeria’s squad for the AFCON finals, Onyeka expressed gratitude for the encouragement and reassurance provided by Coach Frank.

While criticism has been directed at the mid-season timing of the AFCON from various European managers, Onyeka emphasized that his coach at Brentford has been supportive of his international commitment. In an interview with the BBC World Service, he stated, “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.”

Having experienced the challenges of reintegrating into the team after returning from the tournament, Onyeka acknowledged the mental strength required for such transitions. “When you get back, the team is settled, they’re playing well. Getting into the team again takes a long time,” he explained. “Mentally a player needs to be strong because it’s not easy leaving your team for four weeks and coming back.”