Cyriel Dessers, a forward for Rangers, is hoping that a turnaround in his play will get him called up to the Nigerian national team for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Dessers has not been selected by Nigeria in over a year.

The 28-year-old, though, is not prepared to give up on his goal of making the Super Eagles 2023 squad to travel to Cote d’Ivoire.

“The last few times I was in the Nigeria pre-selection squad, but not in the final selection. If you look at the other strikers and the form that they are in, I can understand that,” Dessers was quoted by the Daily Record.

“We have a few players competing to be the third or fourth striker and then it depends on form. The competition in Nigeria is absurd. I could have chosen to play for Belgium, but I am very happy with my choice.”

The striker has endured a torrid time since linking up with Rangers from Italian club Cremonese in the summer.

Dessers has, however, scored five goals for the Gers despite his struggles.

The arrival of new manager Philippe Clement has offered him a fresh chance to fight for a regular playing berth in the team.