Isaac James has hailed his maiden Super Eagles call-up as the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition, admitting that he was moved to tears when he learned he had been selected during Nigeria’s most recent international break.

The Alverca defender said the opportunity to join the senior national side represented a major occasion for both himself and his family, following years of hoping to wear Nigeria’s colours at international level.

Although he had been performing well for his Portuguese club, James said he had not anticipated receiving an invitation so soon.

“I was playing well at that point, but I never thought the call-up would come immediately because being here has always been my dream,” he said of his first international selection. “When the coach called, I became very quiet because I wasn’t expecting it. But I’m very happy.”

The emotional impact of the news was especially strong because representing Nigeria had long been one of his biggest ambitions.

“Personally, I cried, I won’t lie,” James said. “I have always dreamed of playing for the national team. There are so many good players here, so to be among them makes me really happy.”

James said his relatives quickly learned about the development through social media, with his brothers and sister sending him posts and asking whether reports of his Nigeria invitation were true.

“I saw plenty of posts. My brothers and sister were sending them to me and asking, ‘Is it true? Are you going to the national team?’ I told them, ‘Yes, I got the call-up,’” he said.

The selection also created excitement at Alverca. James believes he is the first Nigerian at the Portuguese club to earn a call-up to the national team.

He said those at the club were delighted by his chance to represent Nigeria and viewed it as a proud occasion for everyone connected with the Portuguese team.

Looking back on his time in Portugal, James rejected any suggestion that the country’s league should be overlooked, insisting that it is a demanding competition that has helped his progress as a player.

He said Portuguese football has offered him important experience, allowing him to test himself against varied opponents while developing his game.

James also outlined his desire to influence matches at both ends of the pitch, saying his approach involves meeting his defensive duties while also helping his side push forward in attack.