Central defender Omar Sowunmi has been included in the EFL Easter Weekend Best XI by football stats platform WhoScored, following standout performances for Bromley. The towering defender recorded an impressive 8.18 rating over two matches, helping his side keep back to back clean sheets against Morecambe and Swindon Town.
Sowunmi, who is eligible to play for Nigeria through his father, expressed his willingness to represent the Super Eagles if given the opportunity by the Nigeria Football Federation. Born to a Nigerian father and British mother, he has already logged 32 league appearances this season, contributing four goals from defence.
His inclusion in the Easter XI places him among standout performers from across nine clubs in the English Football League. The XI includes stars from Leeds United, Blackburn Rovers, Doncaster Rovers, and Leyton Orient, with Joel Piroe who netted four goals in a single game, among the forwards selected.
Sowunmi’s defensive stats over the Easter fixtures were exceptional: 18 aerial duels won, 32 clearances, and nine combined tackles and interceptions. He joins Bromley goalkeeper Grant Smith and Charlton’s Lloyd Jones in a formidable backline.
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A graduate of Ipswich Town’s academy, Sowunmi has played for clubs including Yeovil Town, Colchester United, and Sutton United.
Editorial
Omar Sowunmi’s rise may not have come with the glitz of Europe’s top leagues, but it’s built on something just as valuable consistency and hard work. His performance over Easter, culminating in a spot in the EFL’s Best XI, reflects the type of player who brings more than just size to the backline he brings reliability and leadership.
In a time when Nigeria is constantly seeking defensive depth, players like Sowunmi should not be overlooked. His profile physically dominant, aerially commanding, and experienced across England’s leagues fits the bill for a Super Eagles side that still lacks a settled centre-back pairing.
The Nigerian Football Federation must act boldly in casting its talent net wider. There’s untapped potential in the lower leagues, and Sowunmi is a case in point. National allegiance isn’t just about current stardom it’s about commitment, passion, and potential, and Sowunmi has all three.
It’s time for Nigeria to broaden its scouting lens. Our next solid defender may not come from the top of Europe’s food chain, but from the heart of England’s hard-fought lower tiers.
Did You Know?
- Omar Sowunmi stands at 6 feet 6 inches, making him one of the tallest central defenders in English football.
- He captained Yeovil Town during the 2018/19 season, showcasing leadership at a young age.
- Sowunmi started his senior career as a striker before transitioning permanently to centre-back.
- His inclusion in the EFL Easter XI marks his first recognition by WhoScored in a team of the week selection.
- Ipswich Town, where Sowunmi began his footballing journey, has produced several Nigerian internationals, including Kelechi Nwakali (youth training stint) and Uche Ikpeazu.
