₦airaland Forum

I like to argue points. If anybody calls for Yak to be recalled. I will ask for his recent stats. Then that will form the basis of our discussion.

For me, as regards Osaze. Do I think he is finished, No? Do I think he can still perform at a high level for SE as he did in the past. No!

modified.
I think we have a solid midfield based on the personnel at our disposal. But we have to analyze from match to match and suggest who may be best suited for each opponent without interrupting consistency too much.

Tactics-wise, let's talk about Cameroon, and how it will be best to approach the game.

Lazyerudite:
Please can we put forward our points with no insults please. I also saw someone advocating for osazie into this squad Haba na, can't we forge ahead. He has paid his dues and his generation is on the move. Let's build and laugh later than keep recycling over and over again. Our creative midfield is really lacking I would think we would have focused more on that.

In this country of 1001 opinions how could you be shocked? If Osaze is called and he gets the nod to start, then that means his 13 goals in the Indonesian league is not a fluke. There is no cause for alarm. Like I said earlier our talk here is barely noticed by those in the helm of affairs. Free speech is permitted.

Icon4s:
Abeg free her jare.

It is not an issue of like or dislike.

I am even shocked that someone will be calling for Osaze Odemwingie.

He will excel. in fact LCFC is my EPL club this season. With three SE players in their roaster, they have my full support.

tbaba1234:
Iheanacho joins Leicester on a 4 year deal. Hopefully, no more drills without games.

Let me add. Paralyzed = outplayed and overwhelmed

9jaStar:
Paralyzed? No.
We lacked experience and leadership.
This is a team in transition, and under those circumstances, there is a need for guidance and direction on the pitch. We were missing Ikeme (first choice GK), Leon Balogun (regular centreback), Mikel (captain and leader), Victor Moses (key attacking player).

Then the coach decided to start a rookie (Awaziem) ahead of Omeruo's experience, claiming some weird psychological holdover from the last game; and Ahmed Must, citing muslim fast.

And so we had a team that had just two players with any real extended international experience (Echeijile and Onazi). And even Onazi is still basically a newbie if you consider our past teams.

Did our team get overwhelmed and outplayed by SA? Yes. The reason is simple.

But I'm confident that with the addition of just two or 3 of those missing players, we will take out South Africa in the return leg. Mark my words

give just two reasons why SA won without trying to take away credits from them
and two reasons why we lost without giving excuses..

The point is, that team was assembled quickly, and a new coach had just been appointed. Would you agree that they had more negatives than we did.


However, I appreciate your saying it as it is in some aspects.

Here is a list of our starting line up. Forget about the players missing. Is our list not more intimidating than theirs.

Daniel Akpeyi (GK) -- decent keeper
Shehu Abdullahi -- RIO olympics regular
Elderson Echiejile -- over a decade of international experience
William Troost-Ekong -- RIO olympics regular
Chidozie Awaziem -- the only newbie
Oghenekaro Etebo -- RIO olympics regular
Ogenyi Onazi -- lots of international experience
Wilfred Ndidi -- his european stats is intimidating
Moses Simon -- arguably our best player on the pitch on that sad day
Alex Iwobi -- current CAF most promising player/regular starter for ARSENAL
Kelechi Iheanacho -- current CAF youth player of the year/with an intimidating goals to ratio stats

Read more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/06/afcon-super-eagles-line-vs-south-africa/

9jaStar:
First, you're missing my point. Which is, that the majority of our team were youngsters who needed the guidance and leadership of more experienced players on the field.

I can point to specific instances where those deficiencies showed. By comparison, you look at the South Africa team, and they had players with bags of international experience, including some of the so-called home-based players like Dean Furman, Erick Mathoho,etc who have played in Europe and then returned home.

And our coach not only made mistakes, he blundered.

Secondly, irrespective of what Baxter said, his players were outplayed for most of the first half. If we had taken the chances that fell our way before they got back in the game, it would have been a different story.

But hey, they won the game, and fair play to them they won it fair and square.

When you have been beaten black and blue by the same team for 25 years and counting, you are due one good result. They got one. It is not he end of the world. And our coach, I hope, has learnt from his mistakes

More on Opponent Watch:

Greek Starlet Makes His Way Onto Baxter’s Bafana Wish List
Panagiotis Retsos Has Made His Way Onto Stuart Baxter's Bafana Radar
By Soccer Laduma - Jul 26, 2017 09:58 AM 047 16-facebook 16-twitter 16-googleplus
Stuart Baxter flew out to Europe this week on a recruitment mission ahead of Bafana Bafana’s next game and there’s a new potential star on his radar.

Read: Chiefs Confirm Argentine Arrival

According to media reports, Baxter has already lined up meetings with both Kamohelo Mokotjo and Joel Untersee during his time overseas, with the Englishman looking to speak to the duo about their international futures. However, they’re not the only ones on his potential wish list.

Mokotjo recently signed for the English side, Brentford and has impressed in their pre-season build-up, while Untersee is currently contracted to Italian giants, Juventus.

The Daily Sun explained that Baxter will be stopping in Italy, Sweden and England during his trip and that he’s hoping to try and watch Bongani Zungu play for Vitoria de Guimaraes at some point too.

Meanwhile, on top of the aforementioned players, the Siya crew has also been informed that Baxter is interested in trying to persuade Arsenal target, Panagiotis Retsos, to turn out for Bafana in the future, with the Olympiakos starlet having been born in South Africa.

Retsos, who has represented Greece at several levels of youth football, recently got his first senior call-up for a World Cup qualifier although didn’t feature.

Find all updates on the latest rumours and confirmed deals in our Transfer Centre!

The defender, despite being just 18, played 34 games for Olympiakos last season and is still eligible to play for South Africa because he hasn’t made his senior debut for Greece at this point.

It remains to be seen whether Baxter will be able to persuade the likes of Retsos and Untersee – who has played for Switzerland at youth level - to turn out for Bafana in the future, however it certainly seems as though he’ll be giving it a go.

http://www.soccerladuma.co.za/news/articles/local/categories/bafana/panagiotis-retsos-has-made-his-way-onto-stuart-baxter-s-bafana-radar/274541

Following the comments on SoccerLaduma as regards SA's victory, Sundowns fans were arguing that Sundowns players were the reason for the win. Conversely, our argument is centering on missing players like Mikel.

Seriously, we need to solve the real issue. No matter how many stars we have abroad, a solid domestic league is very important.

Baxter: Bafana Bamboozled Nigeria


By Soccer Laduma - Jun 11, 2017 10:53 AM 2172 16-facebook 16-twitter 16-googleplus
Bafana Bafana head coach, Stuart Baxter, was delighted to see his charges beat Nigeria with the 'South African style of football'.

Read: Brave Bafana Claim Three Points In Nigeria

Goals from Tokelo Rantie and Percy handed Bafana their first ever competitive win against the Super Eagles, as they began the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with three points.

“They bamboozled the opponents, ripped them open with some fantastic one two movements; that is typical South African football – dazzling and nice to watch," Baxter told SAFA's official website.

Baxter claims this is a vital and emotional for the South Africans, followin their short preparation.

“I have received countless messages of congratulations mostly from back home in South Africa. They are still trickling it and it goes to show what this win means for the country," he added.

“It is the way the victory was achieved which has been so emotional. The long trip to West Africa, the short preparation period and then go into the match and completely outplay the home favourites is something special.

“We were comfortable on the ball, hit the post twice; I am absolutely delighted. This is what South Africa should do on regular basis."

http://www.soccerladuma.co.za/news/articles/categories/bafana/baxter-bafana-bamboozled-nigeria/270798

Exclusive – Kelechi Iheanacho Will Sign For Leicester City Today – Agent

August 1, 201701
‎The long drawn out saga of Kelechi Iheanacho proposed transfer from Manchester City to Leicester City will end today, a representative of his agency has told Owngoalnigeria.com.

Iheanacho’s move has been held up due to image right issues between two agents First Eleven Management and Stellar Players Management agency. A court in Manchester however ruled in favour of First Eleven.

However both parties have reached an out of court settlement after Iheanacho agreed to pay a huge sum as compensation to First Eleven , and the move will now be made official later in the day.



Daniel Martins
http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/08/01/exclusive-kelechi-iheanacho-will-sign-for-leicester-city-today-agent/

Doing a careful check on South Africa's 25 man list before the Nigeria game, 19 players were home based players. Comparing that squad to their current CHAN squad I couldn't find not one of those 19 players in their CHAN 25 man list.

And some of us are defending the invitation of the invitation of the likes of Akas, Ezenwa, Rabiu Ali and co.
All the South African keepers are home based. Don't give me excuses of the absence of Mikel and a few others as reason for falling to SA. Baxter was just appointed. And the SA team had a few abroad based players. And they played away. They had more reasons to fail in that match, but the reverse was the case. I see no reasons why our players could not hold their own on that day.


Here are the two lists:

25 Man list for SE

GOALKEEPERS:
1. Itumeleng KHUNE Kaizer Chief FC (SA)
2. Darren KEET Bidvest Wits FC (SA)
3. Ronwen WILLIAMS Supersport United FC (SA)

DEFENDERS:
4. Ramahlwe MPHAHLELE Kaizer Chiefs FC (SA)
5. Rivaldo COETZEE Ajax Cape Town FC (SA)
6. Thulani HLATSHWAYO Bidvest Wits FC (SA)
7. Erick MATHOHO Kaizer Chiefs FC (SA)
8. Lorenzo GORDINHO Kaizer Chiefs FC (SA)
9. Abbubaker MOBARA Orlando Pirates FC (SA)
10. Tebogo LANGERMAN Mamelodi Sundowns FC
11. Sifiso HLANTI Bidvest Wits FC (SA)

MIDFIELDERS:
12. Hlompho KEKANA Mamelodi Sundowns FC (SA)
13. Keagan DOLLY Montpellier (France)
14. Andle JALI KV Oostende FC (SA)
15. Kamohelo MOKOTJO FC Twente FC (Netherlands)
16. Dean FURMAN Supersport United FC (SA)
17. Themba ZWANE Mamelodi Sundowns FC (SA)
18. Bongani ZUNGU Vitoria Guimares (Portugal)
19. Aubrey NGOMA Cape Town City FC (SA)

STRIKERS:
20. Sibusiso VILAKAZI Mamelodi Sundowns FC (SA)
21. Percy TAU Mamelodi Sundowns FC (SA)
22. Lebohang MANYAMA Cape Town City FC (SA)
23. Tokelo RANTIE Genclerbirligi FC
24. Thamsanqa GABUZA Orlando Pirates FC (SA)
25. Kermit ERASMUS LENS (France)

25 Man Current list for CHAN (Current squad just released yesterday to take on Zambia)

GOALKEEPERS:
1. Boalefa PULE Amazulu FC
2. Steven HOFFMAN Platinum Stars FC
3. Bruce BVUMA Kaizer Chiefs FC
DEFENDERS:
4. Siyabonga NHLAPO SuperSport United FC
5. Siphiwe MNGUNI Platinum Stars FC
6. Sandile MTHETHWA Orlando Pirates FC
7. Mothobi MVALA Highlands Park FC
8. Mario BOOYSEN Mamelodi Sundowns FC
9. Tercious MALEPE Orlando Pirates FC
10. Denwin FARMER Supersport United FC
11. Ayabulela KONQOBE Amazulu FC
MIDFIELDERS:
12. Cole ALEXANDER Supersport United FC
13. Michael MORTON Amazulu FC
14. Riyaad NORODIEN Orlando Pirates FC
15. Jamie WEBBER Stellenbosch FC
16. Sphelele NTSHANGASE Black Leopards FC
17. Dumisani ZUMA Kaizer Chiefs FC
18. Teboho MOKOENA Supersport United FC
19. Sipho MBULE SuperSport United FC
20. Sibusiso KUMALO Mamelodi Sundown FC
21. Masilakhe PHOHLONGO Ajax Cape Town FC
22. Tshegofatso MABASO Bloemfontein Celtic FC
STRIKERS
23. Bongani NTULI Mamelodi Sundowns FC
24. Ryan MOON Kaizer Chiefs FC
25. Gift MOTUPA Baroka FC

Unveiled – Name & Picture Of New Goalkeeper Trainer Of The Super Eagles

August 1, 2017011




The identity of the new goalkeeper coach of the Super Eagles appointed by head coach Gernot Rohr has been made known to Owngoalnigeria.com editorial staff.

Rohr appointed him to help ease the goalkeepers crisis currently rocking the team as it appears current trainer Alloy Agu has no answers to the questions of who will be in the stick for Nigeria when qualification for the World Cup 2018 resumes.

The name of the new coach is Enrico Pionetti, an Italian who worked with Rohr when he was coach of French Ligue 1 side Nice and also in Burkina Faso.

The coach was pictured with the coach upon arrival in Nigeria yesterday, and they will both head to Kano later in the week to check on the CHAN Eagles team who are in camp ahead of their own qualifiers.

http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/08/01/unveiled-name-picture-of-new-goalkeeper-trainer-of-the-super-eagles/

Ex-Nigeria U15 Star, Olayinka & Bonaventure Named In Dream Team in Belgium

Published: August 01, 2017
Ex-Nigeria U15 Star, Peter Olayinka Named In Dream Team in BelgiumDennis Bonaventure's imperious display for Club Brugge in the opening round of the season has not gone unnoticed by the Belgian Press.

The former Nigeria U15 international bagged a first-half brace in Club Brugge's 4-0 rout of Lokeren on Saturday, just three days after he netted on his Champions League debut versus İstanbul Başakşehir FK.

Voetbalkrant.com has selected Bonaventure and another Nigerian striker Peter Olayinka in its Dream Team for game week one.

Gent loanee Olayinka proved his performance in pre-season was no fluke, bagging three assists in Zulte-Waregem's 5-0 road win over AS Eupen.

Zulte-Waregem top the standings in Belgium with a goal difference of +5 after one match.

http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24020

Man City Striker Iheanacho May Be Jailed For Two Years In America - Report

Published: August 01, 2017
Man City Striker Iheanacho May Be Jailed For Two Years In America - ReportKelechi Iheanacho could be jailed for two years in the United States if he is found guilty of misleading a court in Pennsylvania.

According to The Sun , the Manchester City striker filed pleadings that denied he knew or spent time with Henry Galeano, his former agent before he signed with Stellar Group.

Iheanacho claimed Galeano was an alias used by First Eleven Management co-owner Robert Zanicky.

The British daily has published photographs of the Nigeria international together with Galeano and Zanicky, which destroyed his arguments that Galeano and Zanicky are the same person.

Under Pennsylvania Law, if it is found Iheanacho knowingly tried to mislead the court, he could be charged with unsworn falsification — which, if found guilty, carries a penalty of up to two years in prison.

Henry Galeano claims he became Iheanacho's agent in July 2013, four months before he picked up the best player award of the Fifa U17 World Cup.

The 20-year-old's transfer to Leicester City is being delayed because of the legal issues.

http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24018

Thanks bro

TheGoodJoe:
Nice and interesting read. Also well researched. Keep it up.

How do u assess the SA team then?

9jaStar:
Paralyzed? No.
We lacked experience and leadership.
This is a team in transition, and under those circumstances, there is a need for guidance and direction on the pitch. We were missing Ikeme (first choice GK), Leon Balogun (regular centreback), Mikel (captain and leader), Victor Moses (key attacking player).

Then the coach decided to start a rookie (Awaziem) ahead of Omeruo's experience, claiming some weird psychological holdover from the last game; and Ahmed Must, citing muslim fast.

And so we had a team that had just two players with any real extended international experience (Echeijile and Onazi). And even Onazi is still basically a newbie if you consider our past teams.

Did our team get overwhelmed and outplayed by SA? Yes. The reason is simple.

But I'm confident that with the addition of just two or 3 of those missing players, we will take out South Africa in the return leg. Mark my words

3 REASONS WHY ROYAL EXCEL MOUSCRON WILL BE A PERFECT HOME FOR AWONIYI

1. Mouscron's squad features young emerging strikers that do not have intimidating resumes. This will give Awoniyi a competitive edge and could guarantee he gets enough playing time.

2. All the strikers in Mouscron's roaster this year are African descents. Clears any suspicion of sentiments or favoratism in the coach's selection, especially for those who believe racism is a factor.

3. Awoniyi will feel at home at Belgium especially as the country is home to other young Nigerian players like Ajagun, Bonaventure, Olayinka, Moses Simon, Esiti. to name just a few.

Here is a profile of the forwards in Mouscron's roaster this season:


a. Maksym Bah
The 20 year old Belgian forward was born in Poland. He only moved from the amateur Belgian side, KVK Westhoek in June 2017, which is why there is limited data as regards his performance statistics. He is a Senegalese decent (info not confirmed).

b. Babacar Dione
He is also 20 years of age and listed as a Belgian. He just got promoted a few months ago from Mouscron Reserves. He made the bench for Mouscron as they kicked their 17/18 season to a good start as they won away to Oostende.

c. Fabrice Olinga
21 year old Fabrice is a Cameroonian. His main position is the right-wing but also plays as a main striker and left winger. His assist helped Mouscron win their first game of the season away to Oostende. Olinga appeared in Mouscron's match day squad 17 times in the previous season. He managed only one start and failed to score throughout the season. Fabrice is a product of Malaga CF's youth system, he has also played in Cyprus and Italy within the last 3 years.

d. Jonathan Bolingi
The Congo DR forward is 23 years. He scored the lone goal that gave them the victory over Oostende this past weekend. Bolingi had earlier loan stint with St. Liege (parent club) before he was acquired permanently from TP Mazembe.
The center forward came to limelight after his exploits in the CAF champions league with Mazembe.

e. Yanis Mbombo
The oldest forward (older than Bolingi by a few months) in Mouscron's squad, the Brussels-born Congo DR decent progressed through the St Liege youth system but was only acquired by virtue of a free transfer this year from Orebro of Sweden. He has had stints in France. Last season, he made 8 appearances for Orebro in the Allsvenscan, 1 start and no goals or assists.

written by Joebie for Nairaland

Belgian top flight is better.. At least we can make easy comparison among our exciting young players playing in the Jupiler League.

do4luv14:
it would have be much better if he went back to his former loan club,

cos the coaches understand him better, plus he will adapt without fuse,

The question is how many times have Chelsea loaned him out? His agents and himself should have long seen the handwriting on the wall and pressed for a permanent move. Chelsea won't have hesitated. Now the clock is ticking. I hope he doesn't end up in second tier side.

do4luv14:
its hard to answer, but y didn't they let him vo permanently instead of treating him like that, is what I don't understand

lol u don start again

do4luv14:
ooohhhh!!!!! Ah tink say nah ma first lady you type dis epitaphs
for ooo

Firstly, There is what you call context.. The context could have been relative to Nigeria. It could have also been over the years relative to Nigeria.
I had mentioned the Swiss born goalkeeper before I made that comment. So for you to start out with that condition is a baseless argument because it would lead us to an argument similar to what we have trashed here before -- those who are for abroad born versus those who want us to focus on local talents/nigerian-born ONLY. I'm in the camp that says as longs as a player is a decent of Nigeria they have the same right to stake a claim for an SE shirt.

Secondly, you tried to rule out Kameni, on what ground? That he is too old? what ground my brother? Nobody joined issues with me except you because they already saw the light at the end of the tunnel. Even if we should use your standards, Nigeria can't boast of one keeper who is first choice in a top tier league. Yes, if we rule out Kameni, that means we also have to rule out Enyeama. Is it not already clear? There is no basis for an argument here. You even went on to say except Onana. My brother which kind condition be that? And you now went on asking me to name seven.

My sister safarigirl said if we did the needed we would have them. I'm not disputing that. But in the real world you can say if etc and give excuses it doesn't change what's on ground. Nigerians need to get it right and stop being OVERLY sentimental.

Till now we still have an incompetent Sports Minister. Somebody cried Pinnick put his brother as the coach of the national U15 team the other day, and the NFF came with explanations. My question, what's wrong with coach Danladi to handle the team in interim? It's become our culture to act sentimentally but expect success. In life it doesn't go that way. you can never eat your cake and have it.

So back to the matter. Why am I not still naming any Cameroonian keeper? Simply because the way you started out with me with those conditions, showed your high degree of sentiments and that we are going to have a long argument. And I'm not ready for such. I'd rather spend my time posting the latest news on here.

I will choose Nigeria over Cameroon any day. But should I be a match analyst in any given encounter, I will say it as it is from both opponent's perspective, and also from an onlooker who has no special interest in the match.
Truth is if we fail to get our act together and fail to play as a team against Cameroon, they will deal with us home and away. We need that South African approach when we take on Cameroon. What was their approach. The coach Baxter knew us very well. he knew his match plan. They trained to execute it. And they were confident they would execute it. It's arrogance when all our players but one played poorly that day, and we refuse to give SA some credits. Let's get real. Almost all players cannot just have a bad day. If we had scored 3 goals and won or at least drawn, we would not have been looking for a scape goat in Akpeyi. Those goals he conceded could have beaten decent goal keepers.

ChrisKels:
I just did, I'm sorry I misquoted you. U were never specific with the number. Never meant to put you through that stress. No vex. Oya name dem

Didn't see this earlier. EPIC

Mickael2:
I didn't want to reply but yeah well...

Mikel went to the recent U23 tourney without playing the qualifiers, what does that tell you? Meanwhile incase you have been under a rock since, I have been saying invite him for the next game against Cameroon, how is that the world cup? Except if you are thinking that we have already qualified which is pure arrogance so your first point is kinda blurred, clear that up.

So Gyan playing for Ghana has caused an earthquake? Is he not even older than Osaze? Drogba was playing for Civ when he was in the turkish league and more than 35 years old too, has that caused a tsunami in CIV? These are African teams that have been more succesful these past few years what does that tell you?

Hopefully Theo Solomom and Ajagun as well

junnyjake:
5 Nigerian youngsters to look out for in the Belgian league.






Henry Onyekuru
One of Nigeria’s brightest young talents. Onyekuru joined Everton of England after a remarkable season in Belgium in which he scored a whopping 22 goals for KAS Eupen to emerge as joint top scorer.
Sent on a season long loan to Anderlecth due to work permit issues Henry looks to continue where he left off in a terrain he is already familiar with and against defenders he has already breezed past on several occasion. Can he do it again?
Pacy, skillful and deadly in front of goal the winger cum striker no one should bet against him


Dennis Bonaventure


Dennis Bonaventure
Nigerias next big thing and one of the fastest rising and most exciting Nigerian talents out there. After impressing in the Ukraine where he scored 6 goals in 22 games for Zorya Luhansk, as well as scoring the fastest goal of the season against Dynamo Kiev, Club Brugge will be a perfect platform for the 19 year old to showcase his talent.
Has already given a hint in preseason where he has scored 5 goals for Brugge
Fast skillful elegant and direct, Dennis will definitely light up the Jupiler league and a national team call up shouldn’t be far from the “Nigerian Neymar”

Samuel Kalu


Samuel Kalu
Amazing young talent. Kalu joined KAA gent from Slovak side AS Trenčín where he scored 4 goals in 32 appearances and quickly settled in probably thanks to the presence of 4 of his compatriots at the club
Already becoming a fan favorite at the prestigious Ghelmaco Arena of Gent and has hit the net 2ce already in 14 appearances mostly as a sub
Skillful, pacy and one of the best crossers of the ball Nigeria has currently, it’s almost a sure bet that this season Kalu will step out of the shadow of his older more experienced compatriot Moses Simon and become one of the mainstays of KAA Gent

Peter Olayinka



Peter Olayinka
“Eye” as he is fondly called in Nigeria is finally getting his moment in the spotlight.
Sidelined for a while due to injury after joining Moses Simons KAA Gent 2 seasons ago from Albanian side Skenderbreu Korce, he was sent on loan first to FK Dukla Prague and now to SV Zulte Waregem
Blessed with incredible speed Olayinka is a player who never stops running and bridges easily on pace due to his swiftness. Has been tipped to be one of the best players in Belgium
Uche Agbo



Uche Agbo
The vastly underrated Agbo will be hoping to raise his profile in Belgium with Standard Leige. The 20-year-old holding midfielder spent the 2016/17 season with Granada on loan from premier league side Watford, making 28 starts from 31 appearances in the La Liga where he won an amazing 77 tackles and was rated as the as the fourth best tackler among Under-21 players’ in the top five leagues in Europe and the best from Africa
Strong, fast and an amazing tackler Uche is a quality asset in any teams midfield.

SOURCE: Soccer Assembly.

Are u sure u are ok? Read my previous post again.

ChrisKels:
Oboy that was so puerile of u, why did u flare up that easily? I am sorry if that number was massive but u promised same number or something similar in ur previous post, that was what really drew my attention because the exaggeration was kinda delusional. Just name the players or keep quiet make we hear word.

At least the clubs he has played for over the years never gave a verdict that he is finished or too injury prone to be taken seriously.. He still gets his wages and hardly disappoints when on the pitch.

Icon79:
This boy would've been a top midfielder if not for his hard luck with injuries. And despite all the injuries, he has never failed for find a good team in a top league - Serie A. Quite impressive!

Let's hope he can stay injury free and maintain a good run of form because we will need him for Russia 2018, if we qualify.


O pari

Definitely.. My eyes on Olayinka as well. We need players in the SE who can create good scoring opportunity for other players consistently. Good start for both.

junnyjake:
Denis Bonaventure

Maybe poor agent connections. I wonder why a certain Bundesliga club will want to get Anthony Ujah when Kayode was the top scorer in neighboring Austria.. I just feel like I should just pitch Kayode to them.. well, different strokes for different folks.

junnyjake:
I feel for this guy, he's doing everything expected of a striker.

Awarded the best player of the Austrian league one would expect offers coming from all over Europe for him.

I just wish him the best.

Because of my suspicsion that Ejaria was not fully match fit during the WC U20s I did a little reasearch. Some of us then ruled him off that he did not perform well. Please enjoy this read dedicated to him.

CAN OVIE EJARIA BE LIVERPOOL’S MIDFIELD UTILITY MAN?

Academy Analysis Articles First Team LFC Related Opinions0
At this point, Liverpool’s roster for next season is a bit of a jigsaw puzzle. Some pieces already have their place, some have yet to be found, and the remainder need to be properly sorted out. Nowhere is this puzzle more complex than in Jurgen Klopp’s midfield — there are plenty of question marks, but far fewer answers. Will Emre Can be a Red next season? Will Jordan Henderson stay healthy? Is Philippe Coutinho actually going to play deeper? Who will Klopp bring in, and will he be a guaranteed starter? What’s to come for Liverpool’s fringe players?

Embed from Getty Images



All of these will be answered in time — some quicker than others — but quietly waiting in the wings, Klopp has a young, eager, multi-faceted tool at his disposal. He might not grab the same headlines as the transfer targets and the first-teamers, but Ovie Ejaria is ready to take that next step, and he could have a very important role to play in Liverpool’s busy upcoming campaign.

The blueprint for Liverpool’s up-and-comers
It said a lot when Klopp singled out Ejaria as the role model amongst Liverpool’s crop of young talent. Players from the U23 and U18 squads train with the first team on a regular basis, but Klopp seems to have a very clear idea of what he wants to see before players make the transition to the matchday squad. Interim U23s boss Mike Garrity offered an explanation for why Harry Wilson’s prolific form at Premier League 2 level was not enough to guarantee him a spot at in the senior team. Similarly, Klopp told Sheyi Ojo to stick to his strengths if he wanted to regain a spot in the first team following back-to-back injuries.

That Ejaria possesses the necessary intangibles is a huge positive for his future prospects with Liverpool. Not many 19-year-olds get to hone their games at the first-team level in England, but Klopp’s willingness and trust could well be what accelerate Ejaria’s trajectory beyond that of precocious peers like Wilson and Ojo.

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Where does Ejaria fit?
This may sound a bit hyperbolic for a player who’s still largely unproven, but the question with Ejaria should be more of “where doesn’t he fit?” Under Garrity and his predecessor, Michael Beale, Ejaria was largely deployed across the attacking midfield line in a 4-2-3-1 or in the front three of a 4-3-3. Klopp, however, preferred to play Ejaria a bit deeper as part of a midfield three, exploiting a wider breadth of his talents. It was there that he delivered several solid if unspectacular performances across both the EFL Cup and FA Cup competitions. Unfortunately, any momentum was curbed by a nagging ankle injury that kept him out for the better part of 2017. He managed to regain his match fitness in time to join England’s title-winning side at this summer’s Under-20 World Cup, turning in a few abbreviated but encouraging performances in Paul Simpson’s midfield — none of these cameos set the world alight, but they showed a confident, composed figure nearing full fitness again.

When Liverpool kick off their pre-season fixtures in mid-July, we should get a better sense of where Klopp plans to use Ejaria this campaign. And though Ejaria is extremely talented, he does not outshine Liverpool’s existing midfield core in any one department; however, the youngster’s lack of a glaring weakness is what suits him perfectly to be Klopp’s go-to understudy in midfield.

Here’s a look at what Ejaria can bring to several of Liverpool’s midfield “roles” as defined by the players who played them best last season:

The Winjaldum Role

Much of Georginio Wijnaldum’s work last season was unheralded, but he played a vital part in keeping Liverpool’s midfield ticking. He would be best described as a “knitter” in possession, constantly making himself available as a safe but useful passing outlet, then moving the ball on quickly — typically one- or two-touches. He wasn’t tasked with playing the incisive ball, but rather passing efficiently and using a combination of sound decision making and superior football intelligence to help Liverpool craft moves in transition and in the final third.

Ejaria’s performance against Plymouth in the FA Cup replay at Anfield typified this particular role. Deployed on the left side of a midfield three, Ejaria led all players in passes completed (92) and passing percentage (96.7%), including a perfect 44/44 passes completed in the first half. While much of his distribution was sideways and relatively safe, Ejaria also managed to complete five of six long balls and play one key pass.

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The one trait Ejaria and Wijnaldum share that is vital to success in this role is their ability to receive the ball on the half turn. Liverpool rely heavily on speed and rhythm of passing through the midfield, and Wijnaldum’s contribution is immeasurable — his ability to simultaneously receive one pass and shape his body to send the next is extremely underrated, and is not something that shows up on the stat sheet. Ejaria receives the ball in much the same manner, though the speed of his release is not quite as quick as Wijnaldum’s. At the end of the day, that’s a nominal tweak for a player of Ejaria’s technical ability.

The big questions marks in this case surround Ejaria’s fitness and defensive contribution. Everyone in Klopp’s midfield is expected to put in a serious shift, and there would definitely be concerns as to whether Ejaria could adapt to the physical demands of the position. All of Klopp’s players have an exceptional baseline fitness level, but Ejaria has only twice been asked to play 90 minutes under the German. Similarly, Ejaria has only once featured in a match in which Liverpool did not have the majority of possession: a 2-1 EFL Cup victory over Tottenham. He acquitted himself well, recording one tackle and three interceptions, but it’s not a viable sample for his defensive qualities. Until Ejaria has proven his defensive reliability at the first-team level, he’s best served playing this role in matches Liverpool are likely to dominate possession.

The Lallana Role

Adam Lallana’s form in 2016/17 was remarkable, albeit ultimately unsustainable. He took full advantage of Klopp’s decision to play him deeper, influencing play from the middle third and bursting forward to join Liverpool’s attacking trident. He was the catalyst to some of the club’s best attacking play, exhibiting world-class creativity, close control, and movement in the final third. Most importantly, Lallana was the midfield triggerman in Liverpool’s press, a role in which he is virtually irreplaceable. Following his debut under Klopp in 15/16, during which he so famously collapsed into the manager’s arms after being subbed off in the 81st minute, Lallana’s improved fitness levels have made him arguably the hardest working player in the Premier League. It’s no coincidence that this season he set consecutive records for distance covered in back-to-back games against Manchester City (12.88km) and Sunderland (13.22km) — less than 48 hours apart.

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To replicate Lallana’s two-way output is far too big an ask for Ejaria, but he is more than capable of filling the role of the most advanced, forward-thinking in Klopp’s midfield three. Ejaria possesses the same kind of crafty, elusive close control that Lallana does and is extremely adept at picking up small pockets of space and operating in and around the box. Look no further than last summer’s pre-season tilt against Chelsea, where only the offside flag denied him a brilliant backheel assist to Roberto Firmino after a quick exchange with Sadio Mané on the edge of the box. The time he spent as part of a front three has made him more than comfortable in possession higher up the pitch, and he possesses the football IQ to effectively interchange with the other members of that fluid attack.

If there’s one aspect Ejaria needs to improve in the final third, it’s once again the speed of his decision making. He continues to look a class above against U23 opposition, but he won’t be afforded the same time and space at the senior level.

The Coutinho Role

This is, of course, a massive stretch — Coutinho’s brief spell in the No. 8 role has already seen him produce staggering numbers that, if even remotely sustained over a longer stretch, would make him one of Europe’s best central midfielders. Much like Lallana’s defensive contribution is impossible to replicate, so too is Coutinho’s offensive wizardry. The role he plays so well, however — that of a free-roaming, deep-lying playmaker — is yet another where Ejaria could deputize if needed.

Though his appearances at senior level have come in a more subdued role, Ejaria’s performances at U23 level have shown a cultured ability to pick out a pass and play an incisive ball. Provided there is movement in front of him, Ejaria has the tools to pull the strings from deep, especially if Klopp can coax him out of his comfort zone a bit and make him more willing to take risks.

The other vital trait Ejaria possesses is his evasive dribbling. While he won’t actively look to take on players and advance the play the way Coutinho might, he does have tremendously quick feet and a sound ability to sidestep tackles in close quarters. This is a valuable tool when it comes to buying time and taking defenders out of the game.

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Undoubtedly, Ejaria would need a strong, experienced supporting cast around him if he were charged with playing this role, as he could not and should not be expected to change the game a moment of individual brilliance, a la Coutinho. That being said, there’s no doubting his technical ability to be the playmaking No. 8 in a system like Klopp’s.

The No. 1 intangible: confidence
Klopp knows he has a special group of youngsters coming through the ranks to complement his senior squad. But the thing that made him such a success at Dortmund, and the thing that is rightly to be expected at Liverpool, is his ability to instill belief and confidence in these players. So often he talks about players “expressing themselves” on the pitch, and that really is the perfect embodiment of what Ejaria needs to take that next step. There are a number of different roles for the still-teenager to play this season, but no matter who seems to best personify those roles at Liverpool, Ovie Ejaria can best fill those shoes if he plays like Ovie Ejaria.

Written by Alex Mansfield, @el_mansfield

http://www.lfctransferroom.com/ovie-ejaria-liverpools-midfield-utility-man/

Tammy looks like a great prospect for SE. Going by Amaju Pinnick's claims that he is close to his father, and just because Ola Aina is a very close friend, we may be lucky this time to get him to switch. If we lose Solanke, we win Tammy.
And maybe Victor Moses will help with Tomori. Win some lose some I guess..

Ola Aina: Tammy Abraham Motivated me To Join Hull

Posted By: soccerasson: July 12, 2017In: Eagles WatchNo Comments Print Email
Nigerian Defender Ola Aina has revealed that close friend Tammy Abraham was the motivation behind his move to Championship side Hull City

The 20 year old joined the Tigers for the 2017/18 campaign, a year after fellow Blues’ youngsters Tammy Abraham and Tomas Kalas departed Stamford Bridge for successful seasons with Bristol City and Fulham respectively in English football’s second tier.

The player now wants to follow in his friends footsteps show everybody at the KCOM Stadium just how good he is

“We all support each other and we all hope for good seasons for each other,” Ola Aina said in his 1st official interview with hull city .

“Seeing my good friend Tammy doing so well in the Championship last season is something that motivates me to do the same this season here at Hull.

“I’ve spoken to him about the benefits a loan move can have and he always talks now about the confidence that last season has given him.”

“ It was equally as good for his football and he says it has made him into a man really by moving away from home and living by himself. He’s given me plenty of advice and I can’t wait to get started.”

Ola aina who despite representing England at youth levels has switched allegiance to Nigeria also spoke on his expectations with his new side

“Last season was really good for me and being part of the squad that won the title was fantastic,” Aina added.

“This is a big move for me – my first loan away from Chelsea – and it’s all going to be a new experience for me.

“I know there is a really good squad here and I am excited about working with the players that are here.”

“ I’ve spoken with the Head Coach and he wants to take Hull back up to the Premier League. The vibe that I got from him was really good and I just want to hit the ground running now.”

http://www.soccerassembly.com/ola-aina-tammy-abraham-motivated-join-hull/

Joel Obi On Song As Torino Topple Guingamp
Posted By: soccerasson: July 30, 2017In: Eagles WatchNo Comments Print Email
Nigerian midfielder Joel Obi was in sparkling form in Torinos 2-0 victory away to French side Guingamp

The Nigerian international scored Torinos Opening goal in the a prestigious friendly

Davide Zappacosta got Torinos second

The Italian side were stepping up preparations for the new season which is less than 3 weeks away and would be buoyed by the convincing victory

After surviving an onslaught from the Sinisa Mihajlovic’s lead side Torino took the lead somewhat against the run of play when Nigerian Obi leapt to nod in a Cristian Molinaro assist

Zappacosta then double Torino’s advantage on the counter after good build-up work from Ljajic and Falque.

Obi was substituted on 70 mins for Ghanian midfielder Afriyie Acquah

Obi has always shown flashes of his brilliance at Torino but has had his career plagued by constant injuries

http://www.soccerassembly.com/joel-obi-song-torino-topple-guingamp/

Chelsea Loanee Tammy Abraham Leads Swansea To Pre-season Victory
Posted By: soccerasson: July 30, 2017In: Rising StarsNo Comments Print Email
On Loan Chelsea young star Tammy Abraham continued to raise his profile scoring again for loan side Swansea City in a 2-0 win over Birmingham City in their penultimate pre-season clash at St Andrew’s

The England youth international of Nigerian Descent scored one of two Second half goals to earn victory for the swans

The first half ended goaless despite a good show from Harry Redknapp’s side who showed dominance in the midfield with players like Craig Gardner and Cheikh Ndoye dominating the midfield

However the Swans finally got the decisive goal when 19 year old Abraham who missed a golden chance minutes earlier opened the scoring when he latched on to guide a Fer’s cross into the net on 56 minutes,

Leroy Fer’s 25-yard shot deflected off Marc Roberts made it two –nil for Swansea.

The prolific Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham joined Swansea on a season long loan earlier this month after signing a new five-year contract at Stamford Bridge

This is his 2nd goal in preseason for the Swans after he scored his first goal for Swansea City during a friendly matchup with Richmond Kickers last week.

http://www.soccerassembly.com/chelsea-loanee-tammy-abraham-leads-swansea-pre-season-victory/

Offers For Olanrewaju Kayode Much Too Low: Austria Wien
Posted By: soccerasson: July 29, 2017In: Eagles WatchNo Comments Print Email
Sporting director of top Austrian side Austria Wein has claimed offers for Super Eagles Stirker Olanrewaju Kayode are much too low for the club to accept

Markus Kraetschmer, managing director of the club was quoted as saying by Skysports Austria

The 24 year old Ibadan born striker had an amazing season in Austria where he ended the season as Austrian Bundesliga topscorer for the 2016-17 season scoring a whooping 17 goals in 33 league games for the Violets, and a total of 24 goals in all competitons this season.

His exploits have lead to a scramble for his services with a host of clubs including German Bundesliga giants Dortmund all vying for the former flying eagles star

Markus Kraetschmer, believes the right offer is yet to come in for a striker of Kayodes quality

“Last week was a delegation of Alaves (Deportivo Alaves from the Spanish Primera Divison, note) in Vienna.” Kraetschmer told Sky Sports

“We have negotiated, but were far from finding a solution. In the meantime, there are a few prospective customers, but the offers are much too low to deal with in detail. ”

Austria Wein coach Thorsten Fink also commented on the Nigerian Striker.

“I think his (Kayode’s) future will be decided next week,” he said on Friday.

“Kayode will probably not appear in the squad in the home game against Sturm on Sunday.”

“Probably he is not mentally ready to call his performance,” said Fink.

“We have to look at what is best for the club and the team, “Fink explained about the Nigerians situation

“We do not give any players if there is no win-win situation. If we do not give it, it will also be clear that he has to focus one hundred percent on Austria. ” he concluded

Olanrewaju kayoed made his debut for Nigeria in a 1-1 draw with Senegal in London back in march

http://www.soccerassembly.com/offers-olanrewaju-kayode-much-low-austria-wien/