16th July, 2013
Super Eagles of Nigeria coach, Stephen Keshi has denied ever planning a trip to England to persuade Victor Anichebe to return to the Eagles fold while insisting the door to the national team is open to every player.
The media had been awash with reports that Keshi would make a trip to London where he would meet with Anichebe and other players who have been notable absentees from the national team. But the Super Eagles coach denied the reports on Monday.
“I can’t remember when I said that I would go and visit Victor Anichebe. I just can’t leave Nigeria and go to London just because I need to speak with Anichebe,” Keshi said
Citing Shola Ameobi as an example, Keshi stated that if the Everton striker signifies an interest in playing for Nigeria he would be well received.
“If he wants to come and play for Nigeria let him come. I can’t just pack my luggage and say I am going to England. I don’t do things like that, I don’t work like that,” the coach insisted.
“As regards Shola Ameobi, Shola Ameobi called me, it is not me that called him. He is the one that signified interest in playing for the Super Eagles.
“Shola first sent a text message to me and said ‘Coach I would like to play for Nigeria.’ This is the kind of attitude we are looking for. It is not that you will start begging any player to come and play for his fatherland,” Keshi said.
The former Super Eagles captain went on to state that any player interested in representing Nigeria only needs to put a call through to get a chance.
“If you want to play, you call my line. If you are good enough you stay in the team. If you are not good, you improve yourself in your club and try next time. That is how it how it is done and that is how it should be done,” Keshi informed.