A midfield general beyond his years

Nwosu arrived in the Green Eagles on the eve of AFCON 1980 already carrying considerable reputation. He had captained Nigeria's Flying Eagles and was a well-known figure in the academicals football circuit. Despite his slight build, he possessed a rare combination of skill, fearlessness, and leadership — qualities that earned him a place in the senior squad ahead of more established midfielders.

Odegbami recalls that not everyone believed Nwosu could displace the likes of Muda Lawal, Aloysius Atuegbu, Shafiu Mohammed, Godwin Iwelumo, and Okey Isima. He proved the doubters wrong with composure and confidence, adapting swiftly to whatever role or tactical system he was asked to fill. His bicycle kicks were particularly celebrated — acrobatic, powerful, and frequently on target.

Odegbami's assessment of the man is unequivocal: