Rangers forward Cyriel Dessers has expressed disappointment over not being selected for competitive matches with the Nigerian national team, despite his impressive performances in friendly games.

The 30-year-old striker, who has made seven appearances for the Super Eagles, revealed his frustration at being limited to only friendly matches throughout his five-year association with the national team.

"It hurts sometimes. It feels disappointing," Dessers told ModZero Sports. "I've been in and around the squad for five years now, and I haven't played an official game yet – just friendlies. I am going to say that hurts."

Dessers has been in fine form for Nigeria, scoring four goals in his seven outings for the three-time African champions. His recent performances at the Unity Cup invitational tournament in London were particularly noteworthy, where he contributed one goal and an assist in two appearances.

Despite his prolific record and consistent performances when called upon, the Rangers forward has yet to be deemed suitable for selection in competitive fixtures such as Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers or World Cup qualifying matches.

The striker's comments come at a time when Nigeria continues to search for consistent goal scorers to lead their attack in important competitions, making his continued exclusion from competitive matches a subject of debate among Nigerian football fans.