Playing in Nigeria has helped my confidence and experience, says Akwa United's Paterne Counou

Akwa United FC defender, Paterne Counou has said the Nigerian Premier Football League has played a key role in his career.

Counou was recently called up to the Benin International side for the upcoming 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and he revealed how Nigeria's top flight has helped him.

"Playing in the Nigerian league has helped me build my confidence level and also experience too,” Counou told Goal.

“The competition in the Nigerian League is very strong. You have to be ready at all times and strong both mentally and physically to be at top level.

"I've always been playing for my country but every new invitation to the national team gives me yet a new opportunity to make a positive impact.

“By God’s grace we shall defeat South Sudan in Juba and at home to put us in a good position to secure an AFCON ticket."

Akwa's Counou is among the three players playing in the NPFL who will be in action on the continent for their country.

Rivers United's Douhadji Joseph and Enugu Rangers' Dounou Kounou will also be in action for Togo when the Hawks take on Tunisia.