28th April, 2015
The performance of Nigerian players especially those in the Super Eagles in their respective clubs abroad has been a source of worry to returnee Chief Coach, Stephen Keshi.
Keshi said that he was concerned that most of these players are not getting regular playing time in their clubs in the European leagues and it would be hard for him to count on them whenever their services are needed back home in the senior national team.
“It’s sad that most of our players are not getting regular action in their clubs but we pray that this improves. You know most times when we meet we would have about three days together so mostly it would be tactical work we would be doing.” The Chief Coach however admitted that he does not have a team as he begins his second stint in charge of Nigeria.
Keshi, who led Nigeria to AFCON glory in 2013 after a 19-year wait, recently signed a fresh two-year contract to continue as the country’s coach.
However, the former Mali and Togo handler noted, “The team that helped us win the AFCON in 2013 is no longer in place.
“We don’t presently have a team. We would have to start from scratch to build a formidable team that Nigerians would be proud of.
“My plan is to start with the local-based players, like I did the last time and then look for fit and in-form players from outside the shores of the country.
Nigeria begin the campaign to qualify for the 2017 AFCON in June against Chad at home.