Espoir FC striker André Lomami is determined to secure a permanent slot on the national team after being included on the preliminary squad for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations first round qualifier against Libya this month.

The 27-year-old former APR forward was making his return to the Amavubi Stars fold after six years of absence, but he failed to make the cut into the final squad that pulled off a hard fought goalless draw in the first leg.

The second leg is set for May 31 at Kigali Regional Stadium. 

 "I was over the moon when I got a call to the national team camp. Every player in the world dreams of playing for their countries.   took my inclusion among the top 25 players as a reward for my hard work and dedication this season. This proves that I have had a good season with my club, and I am not going to let this opportunity slip away,” Lomami told Times Sport last week.

Though he was not picked in the final squad for the first leg clash played in Tunis, Lomami says he respects the coach’s decision and promises to work even harder to win back his place on the team.

About his six-year absence from the national team, Lomami said "My absence was due to lack of consistency in my previous clubs like Atraco (now defunct) and Police FC where I used to spend most of the time playing as a substitute.”

Lomami, 27, explained that his performance gained momentum when he decided to leave Police FC for La Jeunesse and later Espoir FC where he played regularly in the first eleven.

"I am still young and I believe I will be back in Amavubi first team,” the striker said with optimism.

Lomami scored eight goals for Espoir, which finished in sixth position in the 14-team league table.