Following his outstanding displays in the NPFL with two-time African champions Enyimba, former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr rewarded him with his maiden national team call-up for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against the Benin Republic and Lesotho in March 2021.
Noble was later included in the country’s squad for the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, serving as backup to Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho as the three-time African champions endured a disappointing campaign.
That tournament marked his last involvement with the national team, and reports later claimed he was axed after protesting the non-payment of his $25,000 AFCON bonus.
However, the Rivers United goalkeeper seems to have put that episode behind him and maintains that he would wholeheartedly welcome another call-up if offered the opportunity to represent his country again.
"Many keep asking if I have retired from international football, but I haven’t. I am still part of the team, and I haven’t given up on the chance to represent Nigeria again," Noble told Flashscore.com.
"I truly miss wearing the green and white and being part of the camp and tournaments. Those moments are special, and I treasure them deeply.
"I remain hopeful that I will get another call-up to the Super Eagles soon, but right now, my focus is on staying fit and playing regularly with my club Rivers United.
"Every game is a chance to prove myself and earn the attention of the national team selectors. Representing Nigeria is always a huge honour, and it fills me with pride.
"I will keep working hard, because wearing the Super Eagles jersey is a dream I will never let go of."
While Noble has been away, several goalkeepers have been called up to the senior national team. Currently, Stanley Nwabali is the first choice, with Francis Uzoho and Amas Obasogie serving as backups.
Noble on Nwabali’s Chippa United exit
Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Nwabali, recently ended his four-year spell with South African club Chippa United
The 29-year-old revealed that he submitted his release request while on international duty with the Super Eagles during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he played a key role as Eric Chelle’s men finished third.
Noble commented on his compatriot’s decision to leave the Chilli Boys, noting that it was a bold move, especially given that Nwabali does not yet have a new club lined up.
"The truth is, no one really knows why he made that decision, but there must be a reason behind it," he continued.
"Perhaps he has received a better offer elsewhere or is close to securing a new opportunity that he prefers to keep private for now.
"Whatever the reason, I sincerely wish him all the best in his next adventure. There is no doubt that he is an excellent goalkeeper, given all he has achieved with the Nigerian national team over the years.
"On top of that, he is also a very good friend of mine. I hope this next chapter brings him success, happiness, and everything he deserves both on and off the pitch."
Why he returned to Nigeria topflight
After a successful spell with Enyimba, Noble moved abroad, joining Tabora United and later Fountain Gate FC in the Tanzanian top division.
He eventually made his return to Nigeria’s top flight by signing with Rivers United. The Super Eagle said his move back home was motivated by the desire for consistent playing time, and he is now vying with Osagie Onisodumeya for a regular spot in the team.
"Rivers United has always been a team close to my heart, and I really love being part of it. I came back home because of that connection," added Noble.
"I’m not worried about playing time, because the team always comes first. It’s not just about me as an individual. Whoever gets the chance to play, we all support that person fully to make sure we achieve the result together."
Noble is expected to feature when league leaders Rivers United take on Bayelsa United F.C. in their next Nigeria Professional Football League fixture.
