Osimhen: My determination to prove doubters wrong key to Napoli success

Nigeria international Victor Osimhen has attributed his run of form with Napoli to his determination to prove doubters wrong.

The 23-year-old Super Eagle is having a good season in Serie A where he has so far managed 12 goals from 23 appearances. However, his goalscoring form was derailed in November when he picked up an injury and needed surgery to repair his face.

It was the injury that eventually ruled him out of the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon where Nigeria failed to get past the Round of 16 after being eliminated by Tunisia. He, however, returned to action for Napoli in January while wearing a protective mask.

“From the moment I had my surgery, I read some people saying ‘The season is over for him’,” Osimhen said as quoted by BBC Sport Africa. “‘When he comes back, he wouldn't go head-to-head with a defender'. 'Even with a mask, he cannot nod the ball' and stuff like that.

“Most of all those doubts are actually a motivation to me. Because I know myself and I know the kind of heart that I've got. To be able to be back and keep the goals coming is a big thing for me.

“I appreciate people that have worked so hard with me to make sure I'm okay even when I had the surgery and everything. They probably doubted me returning to my best because of the impact the facial incident could've had on my mental health.”

Osimhen, whose display is attracting top European clubs among them Manchester United, Arsenal, and Newcastle United, insists he has proven people wrong.

“I must thank all those who stood by me,” Osimhen continued. “I appreciate the love.

“Of course, I want to keep on going and kudos to my teammates – they’ve been supportive to me, on and off the pitch. And I think this is the most important thing that any