Nottingham Forest of England defender, Ola Aina’s versatile abilities are the main assets that keep motivating a Lagos-based youngster, Abeeb Olarewaju to aim for greatness as a footballer.
Olarewaju disclosed this during an exclusive interview with Sports247 at Local Government Primary School, Igando-Ikotun Road, where he trains three days a week with Heart Of Lions Football Academy.
While thanking his coach, Afeez Oladimeji, for giving him technical and moral tips that have aided his development as a promising player, Olarewaju disclosed that he normally plays as a right-back.
However, just like Aina, who can also line out as a left-sided defender for his club or the Super Eagles, Olarewaju can also feature in various roles as a left-back or right-wing-back, depending on his coach’s desires.
The dark-skinned former student of Ikotun Comprehensive College further disclosed that he also loves the style of Chelsea’s Reece James, who he noted can swiftly turn defence into goal scoring opportunities with fast counter attacks.
Olarewaju concluded with words of gratitude to Coach Afeez for putting him on the right path and for selecting him as the senior captain at Heart Of Lions FA, after only a year of his arrival in the team.
“I joined this academy in 2025, but I’m already their senior captain. I want to thank my coach for choosing me. He said it’s because I’m always obedient, and I also thank him for that commendation.
“I also thank one my older brothers, Mubarak, for encouraging me. He used to play football as well, but he could not continue due to money issues. He’s now one of my main advisers.
“I am also facing financial difficulties, but I always save money in order to buy my boots myself. It’s not easy, but I believe that I will still make it through hard work, determination and focus,” said Olarewaju, who wears jersey number 30.
