Steven Gerrard insists Joe Aribo 's first Nigeria call-up proves joining Rangers was the right choice.
Aribo's summer switch from Charlton Atheltic irked former boss Lee Bowyer who claimed the midfielder had made a grave mistake in moving to Scotland.
But the 22-year-old has been an instant hit with fans at Ibrox and his early season form earned international recognition with the Super Eagles.
Gerrard was delighted as Aribo took just four minutes to open the scoring in a 2-2 friendly draw against Ukraine.
And he couldn't resist a dig at Bowyer after he insisted the English Championship was a better environment for Aribo to develop.
Gerrard said: "I spoke to Joe, he was on a recovery day. He is in a fantastic place, smiling away.
“Congratulations to him, his first game and he manages to get a goal.
“And he was rewarded for his form as a Rangers player. It was his first call-up so it shows you he’s at the right place, playing football at the right level: European football, playing in Old Firms.
“At last he has been recognised as an international player.
“Joe Aribo is in the right place, trust me.
“They must have started watching him since he was playing for Rangers.
“They must be happy with him playing in Europa League games and playing in front of 51,000.
“The people who select for the Nigerian national team know now that he can play in big football games.
“I don’t know many players in the Championship who are playing for Nigeria.”
