Sheffield Wednesday defender Michael Ihiekwe has been named in the Championship Team of the Week following his standout performance in the club’s 1-1 draw against Cardiff City. The 31 year old centre back, who has declared his international allegiance to Nigeria, is now hoping for a Super Eagles call-up.
Ihiekwe marked his 100th Championship appearance with a commanding display, which included a well-taken headed equaliser his second goal of the season. His previous goal came in a 3-2 win at Norwich City on March 11. Against Cardiff, he was a rock at the back, making 15 clearances and winning seven aerial duels en route to an impressive match rating of 8.26.
Lining up in a 3-4-3 formation, he was flanked by Watford duo Francisco Sierralta and Mattie Pollock in the Best XI. Ihiekwe has returned strongly after recovering from an Achilles injury, having now played every minute of Sheffield Wednesday’s last 12 Championship matches.
A product of Liverpool’s academy, Ihiekwe has previously played for Rotherham United—where he was a teammate of Semi Ajayi along with stints at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Cheltenham Town, Tranmere Rovers, and Accrington Stanley.
Editorial
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Michael Ihiekwe’s inclusion in the Championship Team of the Week is a significant milestone not just for the player, but also for Nigeria’s national team scouting efforts. His consistency, aerial strength, and leadership from the back are attributes that the Super Eagles could certainly benefit from, particularly in an area where depth has been lacking.
At 31, Ihiekwe may not be a long-term solution, but his experience and physicality make him a dependable option, especially in high stakes qualifiers or tournaments. His recent performances suggest a defender in peak form hungry, sharp, and ready for international responsibility.
What stands out is not just his goal or clearances, but his journey. Returning from a long-term injury and immediately delivering top-tier performances is no small feat. It speaks to resilience, professionalism, and passion qualities every national team should value.
It’s now up to the NFF and head coach Eric Chelle to act decisively. Ignoring a player of Ihiekwe’s calibre, especially with his declared willingness to represent Nigeria, would be a missed opportunity. The Super Eagles need steel in defence. Ihiekwe may just be that missing piece.
Did You Know?
- Michael Ihiekwe is a Liverpool-born defender who came through the Reds’ youth system but never made a senior appearance for the club.
- He played in League Two and League One before becoming a regular starter in the Championship.
- Ihiekwe’s father is Nigerian, which makes him eligible to represent the Super Eagles.
- His headed equaliser against Cardiff marked the first time in his career he has scored in back to back away games.
- Sheffield Wednesday’s nickname “The Owls” originates from the Owlerton district of Sheffield, where the club was originally based.
