Stanley Nwabali says his immediate focus is helping Chippa United have a strong season — not fighting for his place between the posts for the Super Eagles.

The goalkeeper returned to the South African club last month, having departed Chippa United in February. His absence from Nigeria's squad opened the door for Maduka Okoye and Arthur Okonkwo to stake their claims in goal for the Super Eagles.

With Nigeria set to resume their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in September against Madagascar, questions have circulated about whether Nwabali will reclaim the number one shirt. The goalkeeper, however, is not losing sleep over it.

"I feel positive coming back to the club, not just for me but also for the team. The relationship and the agreement is all good. I just want the team to succeed this season," Nwabali told SABC Sport.

Nwabali was equally measured when asked about a potential Super Eagles return.

"I'm not really worried about that one. I'm only focused on helping my club pick up as many points as possible. So for now I'm not too worried about the national team."

It is a pragmatic stance from a goalkeeper who knows club form is the surest route back into international reckoning. Whether Okoye or Okonkwo can hold their ground before September remains to be seen, but Nwabali appears content to let his performances at Chippa United make the case for him.