Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi says his comparison with N’Golo Kante when he joined Leicester City in January 2017 used to irritate him as he believes he wants to carve his own niche.
Ndidi has become the best defensive midfielder since he joined the Premier League,winning the best tackler award two consecutimes times and the Nigerian says he is focussed only on his game.
“Yes it [comparison] used to irritate me but it’s football and I completely understand the fans because they love to find something to talk about,” Ndidi told BBC Sport Africa.
“Even before and then when I arrived at Leicester I heard it. I only wanted to be Wilfred Ndidi and not someone else.
“I focus on myself, I am always critical of myself, I do my best to improve as a footballer game by game and giving my best for my club.
“The comparison with others, about who is better or if Kante and I play alike, is irrelevant to me. I think all that comparison was for those who love to talk and I didn’t focus on it.
“You’re comfortable when you are yourself and not listening or trying to be something you are not,” said the player who has also emerged as Nigeria’s best tackler in the history of the Premier League ahead of Chelsea legend,Mikel Obi.
This season he has been credited as a driving force behind Leicester’s push for a top-four place in the Premier League their FA Cup final spot.
Despite earning regular plaudits for his qualities as the ball-winner in the middle of the park,Ndidi is not one to seek validation.
“I just love to give my best and when the media talk about it, that’s good for the team,” he said.
“I am not someone chasing personal glory or get distracted because of the praises or criticism, you’ll get both in football anyway.
“My job is helping the team. Doing everything I can to get three points and victory for the club, which is very important.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be able to play in the Premier League and chance to enjoy my game at a club like Leicester, where no player is more important than the team.
“I make a contribution like everyone else in the squad and if that helps us to achieve our collective effort, then I am happy to play my part.”
Ndidi will be up Monday night against Crystal Palace for the eighth time in the Premier League as the Foxes look to cement their top four place with a win.
The Nigerian has won two of the games,drawn one and lost the remaining four.He also got his first Premier League red card against the Eagles in Foxes’ 3-0 loss at the King Power Stadium in December 2017.
Ndidi has made 140 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing eights assists in the Premier League since joining from Genk for £15m in early 2017