Former Super Eagles defender Taye Taiwo has reflected on the best time of his career as a professional footballer.

Taiwo will go down as one of the best defenders in Nigeria's history and featured for some of the top clubs in Europe during his active days.

The former left back featured for clubs like Olympique Marseille in the French league and Serie A giants AC Milan.

Taiwo shot into the limelight during the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup where he starred alongside the likes of Lionel Messi and John Mikel Obi.

Reflecting on his career, the 39-year-old highlighted 2005 as the best time of his career where he won the U-2O AFCON with Nigeria and reached the final of the FIFA World Cup where the Flying Eagles lost the final to Lionel Messi's Argentina side.

“It was an unforgettable year,” he told CAF Online.

“I signed with Olympique de Marseille, my first club, then I won the U-20 AFCON and reached the final of a World Cup.

“It’s something that very few players experience. This team will always be special to me. The U-20 Africa Cup of Nations launched my career. I have incredible memories of it and a great sense of pride.

Taiwo was named the third best player in the tournament behind Lionel Messi and teammate Mikel Obi.

“It was a dream come true,” he said. “When I was a kid, I played barefoot in the streets of my neighbourhood, watching great players like Jay-Jay Okocha or Nwankwo Kanu on TV.

“I’ve always dreamed of wearing the national team’s jersey. Winning this title was a crucial step in my career. I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss, and I gave everything to make the most of it.”

WDN