Super Eagles and Brentford star Frank Onyeka has welcomed the arrival of Nigerian youth international Benjamin Fredrick, to the Gtech CommunityStadium, expressing his readiness to assist the young talent in settling into life in London.

Fredrick completed a move to Brentford from Nigerian club Simoiben FC. The 18-year-old defender joined the Bees on a one-year loan deal, with an option for the club to make the move permanent.

Fredrick’s reputation soared during Nigeria’s impressive run to the quarter-finals at the 2023 FIFA Under-20 World Cup. The Flying Eagles achieved notable victories over eventual finalists Italy and host nation Argentina while keeping two clean sheets during their impressive campaign.

✍️ Premier League side, #Brentford, have signed Nigeria U20 star Benjamin Fredrick!

The Nigerian defender joins the young Bees on loan for the 2023/24 campaign

Congratulations Benjamin 👏🇳🇬#BrentfordFC pic.twitter.com/Mg0SCdpFg7

— Bounce Sports (@bouncesports1) August 31, 2023

Frank Onyeka, a pivotal figure for Brentford and the Nigeria national team, welcomed Fredrick warmly in an exclusive interview with BOUNCE, saying, “He’s a nice guy, it’s good to have another Nigerian in the team. I am just going to look after him as my younger brother. My advice for him is to continue going, keep pushing, and I know he will do well.”

Onyeka, known as “Frank The Tank,” has been an integral part of Brentford’s midfield since joining the Premier League club in the summer of 2021. With 51 appearances to his name, he continues to be a vital presence for the Bees.

After helping Nigeria win the Bronze medal at the ongoing U20 AFCON, fast rising Nigerian defender, Benjamin Frederick is now being managed by UK based agency – CAA base.

The Young Eagles 🦅 is in good hands.#AFCON2023 #U20AFCON pic.twitter.com/TedR1ab5lm

— Ojora Babatunde (@ojbsports) March 11, 2023

During the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2023, Fredrick formed a strong partnership with Abel Ogwuche at the heart of Nigeria’s defense. This defensive duo played a crucial role in Nigeria’s successful campaign, with Fredrick starting in all but one of Nigeria’s five matches. The sole exception was a tactical rest during a 2-0 defeat to Brazil, as qualification from the Group Stage had already been secured.

Remarkably, Nigeria’s defence remained unbreached from open play when Fredrick was on the pitch, solidifying his reputation as one of the world’s top centre-back prospects.

Fredrick’s outstanding performances in Argentina attracted attention from several top clubs, but Brentford secured his signature by offering a clear career pathway. They edged out competition from Liverpool, Midtjylland, and Celtic, all of whom were keen to acquire the talented defender.

Benjamin Fredrick, who previously had loan spells with Nigeria Premier League sides ABS FC and Nasarawa United, becomes the second player to join Brentford following standout performances at the 2023 Under-20 World Cup. In June, Brentford signed Korea youth international defender Ji-Soo Kim from K League Two side Seongnam.