Dapo Afolayan is eager to begin competitive action with Blackburn Rovers as the club prepares for its first official match of the 2026/27 season.
Blackburn will face Burton Albion in the opening round of the Carabao Cup on Sunday, with Afolayan looking to carry his strong pre season form into the new campaign.
The 28 year old London born winger remains eligible to represent Nigeria and has previously expressed his desire to switch his international allegiance to the Super Eagles after missing out on opportunities with England.
Afolayan strengthened his connection with Nigeria during the 2025 Unity Cup when he visited the Super Eagles camp and met head coach Eric Chelle and members of the technical team.
Speaking to Blackburn’s official media channel, Afolayan said he and his teammates were eager to move beyond pre season and return to competitive football.
He believes the intensity of competitive matches brings out the best in players and provides the perfect opportunity to begin building momentum for the new campaign.
“I feel good. I’ve had a good pre season and worked hard in the off season to get to a level off the back of last term and I’m ready for the new season,” Afolayan said.
The former St. Pauli attacker has featured prominently during Blackburn’s pre season preparations under manager Tony Mowbray.
His performances could be particularly important as he continues to push for recognition from Nigeria at international level.
A strong start to the campaign could strengthen Afolayan’s case for a maiden Super Eagles invitation ahead of Nigeria’s preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Afolayan’s immediate focus is on Blackburn’s Carabao Cup opener, where he will be hoping to make his mark as the new season gets underway.
