Super Eagles first choice goalie,Vincent Enyeama and captain Joseph Yobo have been axed from the squad to play Iran in next month’s international friendly by team’s gaffer,Austin Eguavoen.
Head of the NFF’s Technical Department Emmanuel Ikpeme explained to kickoff that the move was not punitive, but meant to try out younger players.
“There is nothing to be read from the decision. The players are not dropped. We just want to try out some younger players so that we can build strength in depth for the team. It also does not mean that the players not invited are no longer members of the team.
“They are key members of our squad, but we need to give other players a chance to see if they can fit in when these big players for any reason, are unavailable.”
The team will again be managed by Austin Eguavoen, according to Ikpeme.
“He picked the team and explained to us the rationale behind leaving out certain players. He will be in charge for that game, although the first order of business for the board as soon as they come in will be to appoint a new coach.”
In another report monitored on Brila Radio,defender,Chidi Odiah has also been reportedly left out of the game in Tehran while Eguavoen has called up 20 players made of up 13 foreign-based and seven home lads for the tie.
Highlights of the list,according to Brila include the return of Sani Kaita to the national team,while top choice goalkeeper, a horde of other first team players has been left out.
On the other hand, Siena of Italy defender, Michael Chukwukie Odibe leads a line of rookies into the squad, as he is joined by previously unsung Wasiu Showemimo of Sunshine Stars and Saka Ayo of Kano Pillars.
However, other highly-rated stars – Taye Ismaila Taiwo, Peter Osaze Odemwingie, Kalu Uche, Victor Obinna Nsofor and Obafemi Akinwunmi Martins are listed for the game billed to hold on November 17.
FULL LIST
Dele Aiyenugba
Bassey Akpan
Chibuzor Okonkwo
Showemimo Wasiu
Valentine Nwabili
Dele Adeleye
Taye Taiwo
Michael Odibe
Anyanwu Emmanuel
Fengor Ogude
Kalu Uche
Sanin Kaita
Eneji Otegba
Saka Ayo
Ahmed Musa
John Owoeri
Osaze Odemwingie
Obafemi Martins
Edward Ofere
Obinna Nsofor
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