Jonah Usman is staying grounded as Kwara United’s first choice goalkeeper as his team steps up preparation for the restart of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) on Wednesday, July 18.

The shot stopper has played a crucial role in the Ilorin-based club’s rise from bottom to 15th spot on the league table under head coach Bala Abubakar.

Kwara United are presently on 29 points from 24 games and are one point ahead of the relegation zone ahead of the visit of league chasers Akwa United when the NPFL resumes later this month.

Jonah Usman was speaking about maintaining his position as the first choice goalkeeper at Kwara United in a chat with footballlive.ng.

In his words, he said: “I don’t see myself as the first choice goal keeper, but I rather take things game by game. I still have areas of my game that I must improve, and so it’s about working hard, giving my all at training, and always being ready life called upon.”

“The coach knows that he has good keepers at his disposal, and he’s shown us that he is willing to give us all the chance. It’s all about what you do with your chance, trying to do your best at all times to hold on to that jersey. It’s not so much about pressure though, it’s about going out and enjoying yourself on the field.

We are getting there in terms of a defensive unit. We know what the coach wants from us, and we are working hard towards getting there. The guys in front of me are forming a good partnership and it gives you as a keeper a lot of security when you have players doing well in front of you, and when you are all on the same page in terms of understanding each other.” Usman concluded.