Emmanuel Dennis has expressed his desire to emulate former Nigerian international Yakubu Aiyegbeni following his loan move to Blackburn Rovers from Nottingham Forest on transfer deadline day, Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.
The 27-year-old forward became the fourth Nigerian to play for Rovers, following in the footsteps of Aiyegbeni, Dickson Etuhu, and Hope Akpan.
Aiyegbeni had a remarkable stint at Blackburn during the 2011/12 season, scoring 17 goals in 30 league appearances, leaving a lasting impression on the club and Nigerian football fans.
Speaking to Rovers TV, Dennis shared his admiration for the former Super Eagles striker:
"Yakubu played here, and growing up, I watched him play. This is a club I have been familiar with since my childhood in Nigeria. I was really pleased they wanted me, and I wanted to come."
"He scored so many goals! Yakubu is a big name in Nigeria and African football. His contributions in the Premier League were immense. Watching him play inspired me in many ways because he was such a quality striker.”
Dennis made his debut for Blackburn Rovers in their Emirates FA Cup defeat to Wolves on Sunday and will now look to make a significant impact as the season progresses.
Oluwayemi Omolagba