₦airaland Forum

Has Gernot Rohr finally identified his best Super Eagles squad?
By Dami Ugbane, Special correspondent to KweséESPN


Gernot Rohr's latest Super Eagles squad ahead of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations double-header against Libya indicates that the German coach is finally confident in the options available to him.

The German coach is having to do without captain John Obi Mikel, who's sidelined by injury, but his almost exclusively stuck with the players who have served under him in recent months.
Perhaps this is the Super Eagles reaping the rewards of managerial stability, with Rohr holding the fort with limited off-field distractions over the last 26 months, a rarity in Nigerian football in recent times.

17 of the current squad were present at the World Cup in Russia, with Ola Aina, Semi Ajayi, Jamilu Collins, Moses Simon, Henry Onyekuru, Isaac Success and Samuel Kalu the only new faces.
Francis Uzoho, Daniel Akpeyi and Ikechukwu Ezenwa have remained the undisputed preferred goalkeepers for almost a year, a run which stretches back to November 2017.

Rohr has equally kept things consistent at the back, with the exception of new entrants Collins and Ajayi. Both players were introduced to the group in September, while Abdullahi Shehu returns after missing the Seychelles match with injury.
A decision to stick to with those core of defenders means the likes of Stephen Eze, Uche Agbo, Musa Muhammed, Sincere Seth and Ikouwem Udoh remain on the outside looking in.

In midfield, in the continued absence of Mikel, the weight of expectation falls on Ogenyi Onazi and John Ogu to provide leadership, particularly with Joel Obi still overlooked.

Kelechi Nwakali, tipped as a potential successor to Mikel, has been cut from the latest selection after making his international debut against Liberia in a friendly in September.
At 20, and clearly still regarded as a rookie at international level, Nwakali should return in due time to complement Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Oghenekaro Etebo, but Rohr doesn't appear to believe he's ready just yet.

The coach has made the most obvious selections in attack, sticking with the experienced core of the group: Ahmed Musa, Odion Ighalo, Simon and Kelechi Iheanacho.

Simon, who was hugely missed at the World Cup due to his high work rate and defensive shift, increases Rohr's options from the wide areas, while Ighalo's position could be further threatened with the recall of the physically imposing Success.
While Kalu and Onyekuru continue to vie for the right to be considered Victor Moses's long-term replacement, Success's inclusion perhaps is the most heartwarming.

For all his obvious talent and phenomenal goalscoring record at junior level, the 22-year-old Watford forward has managed just a solitary international appearance so far, a situation that can be largely pinned on his off-field struggles.
Impressively Success has rolled up his sleeves and turned a new corner this season, notably delivering an eye-catching performance in the Carabao Cup against Tottenham Hotspur.
He now finds himself in the squad at the expense of Simy Nwankwo.
Rohr's decision to stick with a squad largely dominated by talented youngsters - 24.4 is the team's present average age - suggests that he's content with the options at his disposal and that, finally, he believes he has identified the squad to take Nigeria back to the pinnacle of the African game.

Source: KweséESPN

Odunayaw:
I have had my fair share of mixing with other people & culture. I see everybody based on their character, skill etc FIRST before their ancestry.

How do you know am Yoruba

Wow! The truth has been manifested and the judgement has been given yet dem no wan gree

gamaliel9:
TheSuperNerd thank you for the video of Osimhens Belgian Cup goals...He si reakky good at nodding in goal...ALL ROUND STRIKER INDEED

You welcome my good man.

chrisooblog:
decent list pity no Mikel.

It's confirmed ezenwa or akpeyi have rohr's nude pics cos I see no reason why either of those two are being called up at the expense of Theo afelokhai

Tyrone, vicmo and ebere to join Omo you have a pretty formidable squad on your hands

If I ask questions, dem will say you are clamouring for Theo because you are Yoruba.

Here, common sense is nolonger common.

oloriooko:
Why is Enyimba goalie not included in this list?
What is the technical unit of NFF doing to get this dude called up to the SE?

A ma moooo!

About Musa from 5 days ago but a nice read

Ahmed Musa: The Super Eagle channelling his inner phoenix
By Colin Udoh, West Africa Editor, KweséESPN

When news of Ahmed Musa's move to Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr broke, a case could have been made that the move represented a regression and should have marked the end of his international career.
There was no need to dig deep to reach the roots of their indignation; Musa was leaving a club in the Premier League, the most prestigious league in the world.
Not only that, he had seemingly sneezed at offers to stay in Europe.
Failing to win, let alone tie down a regular place at mid-level Leicester City was considered a let down for a player who was not only a senior head in the national team, but had worn the captain's armband, albeit for a short spell.

His case was made even more perplexing when he went on loan to his former club CSKA Moscow, and immediately walked into the first team, playing in European competition and scoring goals.
As if that was not enough, Musa had been Nigeria's standout player at the World Cup in Russia, overcoming the indignity of losing his starting spot to score twice against Iceland and seemingly put Nigeria on track for progression from the group stage.

After the summer that he enjoyed, there were surely expectations that Musa had done enough to either earn himself more respect at Leicester, or a move to another European or even English club.
Instead, the forward chose to take the move to Saudi Arabia, where the lucrative offer cannot quite disguise the mediocrity of the league.
It was up to Musa to prove that he still had plenty of football left in him.
The 25-year-old wasted no time in doing just that.
He opened his account in his competitive debut, the first leg of the Arab Club Champions Cup Round of 32.
Musa came on as a second-half substitute and found the net against Al Jazira on 75 minutes, and then took his scoring form into the international break, netting against Seychelles in a 3-0 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying victory.
Two games into his return from international duty, Musa hit his first career hat-trick, earning him the Player of the Week honours that were presented to him on Monday.
It's been yet another example of Musa's ability to dig in and fight back in the face of testing situations.
After domestic trouble affected his form last season, for example, he also lost his place in the Super Eagles starting team and even his spot on the plane to Russia appeared shaky for a time.

However, Gernot Rohr kept faith with his experienced lieutenant and was to reap rich reward as Iceland were dispatched in Volgograd.

Five games, four goals, one assist is Musa's scorecard with Al Nassr so far, and if he keeps up this current rate of return, he will surely justify his sustained presence in Rohr's plans.


Source: KweséESPN

ChrisKels:
Odunayaw(odunayo) sounds western Nigerian to me.

Stop trying to know other peoples tribe here.

Also from 5 days ago and coincidentally even Goal wrote an article on this lad and then on Isaac Success before the release of the list

Can Ikouwem Udoh be Nigeria's left-back solution?
By Dami Ugbane, Special correspondent to KweséESPN


Ikouwem Udoh's commanding performance and goal for Enyimba in Sunday's 5-1 CAF Confederation Cup demolition of Rayon Sports was the latest in a series of impressive outings from the left-back.
Has the defender done enough to be handed a maiden Super Eagles call-up by Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr?

His composed display, impressive all-round team contribution and well-struck goal in Aba further highlighted the qualities which have made him such an influential figure for the People's Elephant during their continental competition.

The youngster played all six group games and both legs of the
quarter final, and continues to go from strength to strength.
The much improved 18-year-old has seen his stock rise in the past 18 months, since he was promoted from the Enyimba Feeders team
in March 2017.

He's featured in the African Nations Championship and the CAF Confederation Cup, was named the 2017 Nigeria Young Player of the Year, and captained the Flying Eagles of Nigeria as they secured qualification to the 2019 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.
Perhaps faith played a leading role in Udoh's accelerated progression.

The player was preparing for the league season with Enyimba when he received an impromptu call-up for the CHAN in Morocco, following a spate of withdrawals and injuries.

An injury to Daniel Itodo at the conclusion of the group-stage matches led to Udoh being handed a first-team role, an opportunity he grabbed with excellent displays as the home-based Super Eagles finished as runners-up.

His rise should prompt parallels with a former Super Eagles left-back, Taye Taiwo, who was renowned for his deadly canon shots in the green and white of Nigeria.
Back in 2004, Taiwo was the breakout star in the Nigerian top flight, featuring for Lobi Stars.

His standout qualities were too exceptional for the national team selectors to ignore as the team struggled for adequate options in the aftermath of Celestine Babayaro's retirement.
Like Udoh, Tawio featured for Lobi in CAF's second-tier club competition - the CAF Cup - and was a member of the Flying Eagles before eventually making his Super Eagles bow against South Africa in the Nelson Mandela Challenge in November 2004.

A similar scenario appears to be on the verge of repeating itself for the Eagles, with Rohr opting to drop the team's only experienced left-back - Elderson Echiejile - ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Seychelles.

While Brian Idowu and Ola Aina, right-footed players who are comfortable playing in both full-back positions, might be considered options, the former's unconvincing displays could free up a spot for a credible and natural left-back challenger.

Rohr recently had the opportunity of working closely with Jamilu Collins and Ebube Duru, but regardless of his assessment of the pair, a combination of age, consistency and international exposure could see Udoh get Rohr's nod.

If Udoh continues to excel at the projected rate at Enyimba, then he could become the latest in a long list of Elephants to make the step up to the Super Eagles.
Surely, it won't be long before the talented youngster is handed an opportunity to make his international debut for the national side, and potentially even lock down the position for the next decade.


Source: KweséESPN

From 4-5 days ago: On Success before the release of the list

Isaac Success: The unlikely comeback of Nigeria’s forgotten star

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/d4/c8/isaac-success-of-watford_v1uwtc5n71x3182ygw4t8weq2.jpg


The Watford forward netted against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday evening, and could yet be a hit in English football

Amidst the many subplots to have accompanied Watford’s fine start to the season, the comeback of Isaac Success has gone largely under the radar.

Jose Holebas’s contributions in the final third, Roberto Pereyra’s fine performances and the parallels with Leicester City’s title-winning campaign of 2015-16 have been the main talking points during an excellent few months for the Hornets.

Yet 22-year-old Success served a reminder that he could still play a big role in Watford’s season with an eye-catching contribution in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash.

The Hertfordshire-based side may have been eliminated from the tournament on penalties by Tottenham Hotspur—with Etienne Capoue and Domingos Quina missing the decisive spot kicks—but once again they caused Spurs problems, having beaten the domestic heavyweights 2-1 in early September.

While Javi Gracia shuffled his pack for the midweek tie, making 10 changes, his weakened team gave Success another opportunity to prove that he can yet have a role to play at Vicarage Road.
He also shone in the previous round—netting against Reading—and followed up that contribution with another eye-catching showing on Wednesday.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/df/ac/isaac-success-watford_m3afbyxjowwp1chwd73gkgz4d.jpg

The former wonderkid gave Watford the lead in the 46th minute when he picked up a through-ball from Kiko Fermenia, shrugged off the defender and slammed a right-footed effort past Paulo Gazzaniga.
The goal is yet another step on the road back to prominence for Success, who’s endured a miserable time since becoming Watford’s record signing in July 2016.
He netted just once in 19 league outings during his maiden campaign—with only two appearances coming from the start—as he struggled to adapt to the demands of life in England.

Last term, with Marco Silva now at the helm, injuries and off-field controversies appeared to get the better of the youngster, and he didn’t feature during the first half of the campaign, before being shipped out to Malaga on loan in early 2018.
Success got back on the pitch, at least, during a troubled campaign for Malaga—who ended up being relegated—although he failed to net in 496 minutes in the Spanish top flight.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/84/1f/isaac-success-reading-vs-watford-league-cup_oam6q66rqppo1spbzvhir3xyp.jpg

Heading into this season, the forward had managed just four league starts across the previous two campaigns. At such a critical juncture in his development and his career, it was a devastating setback for a youngster who once appeared primed to play a key role for the Super Eagles.

So far this term, however, Success has been handed semi-regular appearances by Gracia.
Admittedly, he’s yet to start for the Hornets, but he’s come off the bench in every one of their league games so far, and both his fitness and his confidence appear to be returning.
Against Spurs, he was arguably Watford’s standout performer, and while he may not have done enough to earn a starting spot against Arsenal this weekend, he’ll likely get some more minutes on the board.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/Goal_Nigeria/4e/24/isaac-success-of-watford_4zrsm637a0h1qdy01dvvf3uz.jpg

Notable about Success’s performance was his upper-body strength and his ability to hold-off defenders as Watford launched attacks.
While pundits were raving about the power shown by Eden Hazard as he slalomed past Liverpool’s defenders to fire Chelsea into the next round, Success was causing similar—if less marked—problems for Spurs’ defenders.
He appeared confident, sought possession and constantly out-muscled the opposition centre-backs in order to forge space for himself and his teammates.
His pace should make him an excellent asset for Watford—from the start or off the bench—over the coming months, while his aggression and superb technique also shone through at times.
Success’s showing last night offered a glimpse at the kind of player Watford fans must have thought they were signing before his career went off the rails.

What’s more impressive is that the Super Eagle has bounced back to demonstrate this kind of form despite the on-field failings, the injuries and the controversies of the last two seasons.

If Wednesday’s game was a sign of things to come, then Success could yet play his part in what’s shaping up to be a memorable campaign for the Hornets.


Source: Goal

From 3-4 days ago: On The prospects and further development of Utin, a top left back prospect in Nigerian football

European move critical for Super Eagles' great hope Ikouwem Utin
By Solace Chukwu, Correspondent


https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/fc/74/ikouwem-utin-nigeria-vs-mauritania-2019-africa-u20-cup-of-nations-qualifiers_10jxmlh2ayvlr1cz2i1bocxuss.jpg

Stagnation is beginning to set in for the young left-back, and it is in Nigeria's interest that he leaves the coop sooner rather than later

When Enyimba dispatched Rayon Sports on Sunday, there was more than a passing interest among the NPFL's other sides.
The People's Elephant stand alone on the continent, and while the stated aim of the club is to complete the trophy haul with the Caf Confederation Cup, the larger consideration is the dwindling allocation of qualification spots for Nigerian clubs on the continent going forward.
However, while the hopes of Nigerian club football rest uneasily on a tired, aging pachyderm, the hopes of the national team find expression in young left-back Ikouwem Udo Utin, who has risen from obscurity over the past year to become a mainstay in the Enyimba first team.

His zero-to-hero story, from emerging from the shadow of Chima Akas in the 2017 season to representing the national team at this year's Africa Nations Championship in Morocco, is well documented.
That rapid rise in profile has carried on into 2018: the 18-year-old was in March named captain of the under-20 national team that sealed a place in the 2019 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations by thrashing Mauritania 6-1 on aggregate in July.
He featured again for the national side on the eve of the World Cup, in the 3-2 friendly loss to Atletico Madrid in Uyo, coming on for the injured Ebube Duru and impressing hugely. Whether by chance or by design, all indications are that Utin is on the road to being a national team mainstay for many years to come.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/46/f2/ebube-duru_snsnqa3vui7v17vmwasrc1tgs.jpg

There are, however, two main obstacles to the actualization fulfilment of this expectation, and the first centres on development.
As one might expect from a player who started out as a forward, there are a significant number of holes in his game defensively. In the middle of only his second season as a senior professional, those are unlikely to disappear overnight.

That said, there is little to suggest those deficiencies are being addressed. Even less so, that those who should address them have the capacity to.
Much of Utin's development at Enyimba has been down to a combination of his natural abilities and the proneness to injury of those ahead of him. Both factors have combined to afford him the amount of playing time a young player needs to build up confidence. It is, in fact, to his credit that he has got by this long on that alone.

There has been little targeted coaching on his defensive positioning or his awareness. Instead, the youngster relies on his athleticism and agility to recover from errors, and that just cuts to the heart of so much that is wrong in the Nigerian coaching scene: a lack of capacity to teach, and a snobbish attitude toward modern footballing ideas.

This goes beyond Utin himself; he is not the first of whom greatness has been predicted, but there are several degrees of separation between that and talent, which is essentially raw. The bridge is the process of refinement, and it is at this stage that Nigeria has time and again let many prospects go to waste.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/5b/28/ikouwem-udo-utin-nigeria-chan-2018_h8gjdtr6fnyp12vjda654t07f.jpg

In this regard, perhaps the best thing that can happen for the player is a move to Europe, where he can get the specialized coaching he so clearly needs. This is especially pertinent while he remains pliable – Utin's introverted, religious persona lends itself to learning at this time, and should at least keep him far from the vice and debauchery that has derailed some before him.

However, while there are reports of interest from Belgium, it is more likely he will have to excel with the Flying Eagles, at both the Under-20 Afcon and World Cup, in order to attract more eyes. That brings us to the other caveat: Nigeria's handling of succession from youth teams to seniors.

Historically, failure at youth level has often seen an entire group discarded from the progression of the national sides altogether. See, for instance, how few members of the victorious under-17 side of 2015, having failed to qualify for the Under-20 World Cup in 2017, there are in this present group, despite the fact that a number of them ought to still be under the age limit come the 2019 Under-20 World Cup.

With the 18-year-old showing signs of stalling in his development, the Under-20 Afcon and World Cup next year take on an added significance. The failure of the entire team may become his, and truncate what has up until now been a meteoric rise; success, on the other hand, would not only make sure he (and the entire set) are looked upon more favorably back home, it would also make him more attractive to potential suitors in Europe.
The stakes, therefore, are remarkably high for Nigeria's great left-back hope.


Source: Goal

daveP:
No. it's very stale!! I'm very much around and saw lots of actions and reaction, but refused to further aggravate it, esp when such are tackled well. You don't expect fans that want the best of any GwG player to watch as you try to stigmatize them and turn a blind to the other. You were not making a point, it was obvious you were up to rubbing it in. Now that's hate.

You know that if I choose to arise and start to use you antagonistic yardstick for players you love, it would be useless cos I don't benefit from such shenanigans.


You hate Nacho and I can really feel it from afar. What's your crux with him? Its so so obvious you didn't even bother for those other star, world class players that made the worst XI. But rather decided to hinge on Nacho alone. Don't bring that talk of I'm concerned only with SE players.

It's stale man...very stale!! You hate this guy. And you do belong to the cliche that believes form is constant. Bravo!!


I'm not against you pointing out any new thing, but now I can see you just show this hate with gusto. Its hate!! Don't know what the kid did that makes you so bent on this cheap stale approach.

Was Iheanacho poor last season as I made it known then? Yes or no?

No need for too much sermon.

daveP:
Perhaps he rates Ighalo high with his worst turn of goals for the se in 3yrs.

I'll wait so happily for the next rating by Marca that would catch him since he now loves their ratings. Yardstick!!

Hmmm! I can see you are just emotional attached. Nothing more nothing less.

safarigirl:
you no k ow say na Kelechi dey block him nephew road for Super Eagles?

If Kelechi is not in the team, maybe Rohr will remember Kauode is still alive somewhere. For now, Kelechi is the reason why forgiveness and him people no fit watch Super Eagles game with joy and excitement.

Who are him people? Come out loud and clear safa.

he was linked with a move to club brugge in the summer but i don't know why the move didnt materialize. this kid needs to leave for europe asap so that his talent will be well nurtured

TheSuperNerd:
From 3-4 days ago: On The prospects and further development of Utin, a top left back prospect in Nigerian football

European move critical for Super Eagles' great hope Ikouwem Utin
By Solace Chukwu, Correspondent


https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/fc/74/ikouwem-utin-nigeria-vs-mauritania-2019-africa-u20-cup-of-nations-qualifiers_10jxmlh2ayvlr1cz2i1bocxuss.jpg

Stagnation is beginning to set in for the young left-back, and it is in Nigeria's interest that he leaves the coop sooner rather than later

When Enyimba dispatched Rayon Sports on Sunday, there was more than a passing interest among the NPFL's other sides.
The People's Elephant stand alone on the continent, and while the stated aim of the club is to complete the trophy haul with the Caf Confederation Cup, the larger consideration is the dwindling allocation of qualification spots for Nigerian clubs on the continent going forward.
However, while the hopes of Nigerian club football rest uneasily on a tired, aging pachyderm, the hopes of the national team find expression in young left-back Ikouwem Udo Utin, who has risen from obscurity over the past year to become a mainstay in the Enyimba first team.

His zero-to-hero story, from emerging from the shadow of Chima Akas in the 2017 season to representing the national team at this year's Africa Nations Championship in Morocco, is well documented.
That rapid rise in profile has carried on into 2018: the 18-year-old was in March named captain of the under-20 national team that sealed a place in the 2019 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations by thrashing Mauritania 6-1 on aggregate in July.
He featured again for the national side on the eve of the World Cup, in the 3-2 friendly loss to Atletico Madrid in Uyo, coming on for the injured Ebube Duru and impressing hugely. Whether by chance or by design, all indications are that Utin is on the road to being a national team mainstay for many years to come.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/46/f2/ebube-duru_snsnqa3vui7v17vmwasrc1tgs.jpg

There are, however, two main obstacles to the actualization fulfilment of this expectation, and the first centres on development.
As one might expect from a player who started out as a forward, there are a significant number of holes in his game defensively. In the middle of only his second season as a senior professional, those are unlikely to disappear overnight.

That said, there is little to suggest those deficiencies are being addressed. Even less so, that those who should address them have the capacity to.
Much of Utin's development at Enyimba has been down to a combination of his natural abilities and the proneness to injury of those ahead of him. Both factors have combined to afford him the amount of playing time a young player needs to build up confidence. It is, in fact, to his credit that he has got by this long on that alone.

There has been little targeted coaching on his defensive positioning or his awareness. Instead, the youngster relies on his athleticism and agility to recover from errors, and that just cuts to the heart of so much that is wrong in the Nigerian coaching scene: a lack of capacity to teach, and a snobbish attitude toward modern footballing ideas.

This goes beyond Utin himself; he is not the first of whom greatness has been predicted, but there are several degrees of separation between that and talent, which is essentially raw. The bridge is the process of refinement, and it is at this stage that Nigeria has time and again let many prospects go to waste.

https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/GOAL/5b/28/ikouwem-udo-utin-nigeria-chan-2018_h8gjdtr6fnyp12vjda654t07f.jpg

In this regard, perhaps the best thing that can happen for the player is a move to Europe, where he can get the specialized coaching he so clearly needs. This is especially pertinent while he remains pliable – Utin's introverted, religious persona lends itself to learning at this time, and should at least keep him far from the vice and debauchery that has derailed some before him.

However, while there are reports of interest from Belgium, it is more likely he will have to excel with the Flying Eagles, at both the Under-20 Afcon and World Cup, in order to attract more eyes. That brings us to the other caveat: Nigeria's handling of succession from youth teams to seniors.

Historically, failure at youth level has often seen an entire group discarded from the progression of the national sides altogether. See, for instance, how few members of the victorious under-17 side of 2015, having failed to qualify for the Under-20 World Cup in 2017, there are in this present group, despite the fact that a number of them ought to still be under the age limit come the 2019 Under-20 World Cup.

With the 18-year-old showing signs of stalling in his development, the Under-20 Afcon and World Cup next year take on an added significance. The failure of the entire team may become his, and truncate what has up until now been a meteoric rise; success, on the other hand, would not only make sure he (and the entire set) are looked upon more favorably back home, it would also make him more attractive to potential suitors in Europe.
The stakes, therefore, are remarkably high for Nigeria's great left-back hope.


Source: Goal

Opponents Watch


Mediterranean Knights Invade Uyo On October 11th


Footballlive.ng has gathered that Libya’s team, Mediterranean Knights will fly into Nigeria on October 11th, ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations first leg qualifier against the Super Eagles on October 13 in Uyo.
Information in this regard was provided by Libyan Football Federation (LFF) spokesman, Fatih Chaboulos, who said the squad will camp in Tunisia for seven days before boarding a chartered flight to Nigeria for next Saturday’s game at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Chaboulos further confirmed that the camp in Tunisia will hold from October 4th to the 11th, when the team will travel on a private plane to keep a date with the Super Eagles.

The match day three fixture will be followed by a return leg just three days later at the 18,000-capacity Stade Taïeb Mhiri in Sfax, Tunisia on Tuesday, 16th October.

Libya manager, Adel Amrouche is already making plans for the second leg as well, as hence the decision to open camp in Tunisia, where his 22-man squad is expected to acclimatise for a week.
Libya top Group E of the 2019 AFCON qualifiers with four points, same as South Africa, who have an inferior goal difference, but The Knights are a point ahead of Nigeria.
The Eagles, whose players are to report in Akwa Ibom State capital, Uyo Monday, October 8, will have to eke out at least four points from the upcoming matches in order to upstage Libya at the top of the table.

Source: FootballLive.ng

we still dey wait Naija own o

forgiveness:
Wow! It has been completed. Ghana na Baba.

edi287:
Still no Eze...Rohr no go get sense now. Didn't even bother replacing injured Joel Obi.
From the list, I'd like us to line up with Uzoho - Idowu, Leon Balogun, Troost Ekong, Aina - Ndidi, Etebo, Iwobi - Musa (he's in great form), Success and Moses Simon.
However, we all know Rohr...Ighalo and Onazi will definitely start even if you threatened him at gun point.
Onyekuru - Ighalo - Kalu
Musa - Success - Moses Simon
Kalu - Success - Moses Simon
So many combinations to choose from for our front 3. Rohr better not Bleep things up. Even if you want to question the quality of our current players - one thing you can't deny is we have the right balance.
It's up to Rohr to stop with his destroyer fetish and be bold!

Rohr no dey think at all at all. No replacement for Joel. I can't understand.

From 4 days ago

NFF on course to reach self-funding goal - Pinnick
By Colin Udoh, West Africa Editor, KweséESPN

NFF President Amaju Pinnick says the Nigerian federation is on course to become completely self-funding by the end of his second term in office after achieving 65-percent private sector funding.
Pinnick, who was re-elected for a second term last week, says the focus of the coming years will be to achieve full self-sufficiency for the NFF.

"Thanks to our many sponsors and partners, we have achieved 65-percent private sector funding status," Pinnick told KweséESPN.
"Football has a tremendous capacity to be self-sustaining and even contribute significantly to the national GDP," he added. "That is the situation we are targeting at the moment.
"Our target is a hundred percent."

The progress represents a remarkable achievement for the NFF, and is testament to the success of Pinnick's aggressive commercial drive.

During his tenure, he's raked in sponsors like Aiteo, Coca Cola, Zenith Bank, Nigeria Breweries, NIKE, Cadbury, WAPIC Insurance, Emzor Pharmaceuticals, TGI, 1XBet, Peak Milk and Payporte.

Of the NFF's N6,382,500,310 budget for 2018, only N1,148,646,974 was appropriated in the 2018 federal budget, leaving a shortfall of well over N5 billion for Pinnick's administration.
The sixty-five percent of the total budget discussed by Pinnick amounts to about N4 billion.

NFF sources tell KweséESPN that the federation will now resume pursuit of new sponsorship deals which were stalled by the crisis in the federation.
"We had some deals, including one from a major telecommunications firm that was set to be signed after the World Cup, but had to be put on hold because of the crisis," said the source.

A new, improved contract with equipment manufacturer Nike is also said to be on the cards, especially after the phenomenal global success of the Super Eagles' 2018 World Cup kit.

Pinnick also recently engaged two of Nigeria's top billionaires - Alike Dangote and Femi Otedola - with an invitation to the FIFA Best Awards in London earlier this week, with talks about potential investment in the federation progressing well.


Source: KweséESPN

darkelf:
I wonder why rohr still includes ezenwa and akpeyi in his team. What could be wrong?

This is past being conservative? Do they have godfathers in NFF?

These guys don't merit it. And it gonna make Uzoho complacent since there's no real competition.

Even Ighalo. Another bad showing against Libya should convince even his die-hard supporters that he has nothing to offer.

Gbam!

forgiveness:
Rohr no dey think at all at all. No replacement for Joel. I can't understand.

The guy sha. What is taking him so long to try Eze out? I like how he packed forwards sha.

TheSuperNerd:
From 4 days ago

NFF on course to reach self-funding goal - Pinnick
By Colin Udoh, West Africa Editor, KweséESPN

NFF President Amaju Pinnick says the Nigerian federation is on course to become completely self-funding by the end of his second term in office after achieving 65-percent private sector funding.
Pinnick, who was re-elected for a second term last week, says the focus of the coming years will be to achieve full self-sufficiency for the NFF.

"Thanks to our many sponsors and partners, we have achieved 65-percent private sector funding status," Pinnick told KweséESPN.
"Football has a tremendous capacity to be self-sustaining and even contribute significantly to the national GDP," he added. "That is the situation we are targeting at the moment.
"Our target is a hundred percent."

The progress represents a remarkable achievement for the NFF, and is testament to the success of Pinnick's aggressive commercial drive.

During his tenure, he's raked in sponsors like Aiteo, Coca Cola, Zenith Bank, Nigeria Breweries, NIKE, Cadbury, WAPIC Insurance, Emzor Pharmaceuticals, TGI, 1XBet, Peak Milk and Payporte.

Of the NFF's N6,382,500,310 budget for 2018, only N1,148,646,974 was appropriated in the 2018 federal budget, leaving a shortfall of well over N5 billion for Pinnick's administration.
The sixty-five percent of the total budget discussed by Pinnick amounts to about N4 billion.

NFF sources tell KweséESPN that the federation will now resume pursuit of new sponsorship deals which were stalled by the crisis in the federation.
"We had some deals, including one from a major telecommunications firm that was set to be signed after the World Cup, but had to be put on hold because of the crisis," said the source.

A new, improved contract with equipment manufacturer Nike is also said to be on the cards, especially after the phenomenal global success of the Super Eagles' 2018 World Cup kit.

Pinnick also recently engaged two of Nigeria's top billionaires - Alike Dangote and Femi Otedola - with an invitation to the FIFA Best Awards in London earlier this week, with talks about potential investment in the federation progressing well.


Source: KweséESPN

He may not be perfect, but Pinnick has done plenty good things since he's come in as NFF chairman.
Red beret onye iberibe and Giwa need to go boil their heads in a volcano.

Humility017:
Lollllll
a tribalistic being calling me a tribal bigot.

you really have a problem...
if i was a tribal bigot I would have been cavassin for Ighalo and Vic Moses because I am from same place with them....even same tribe with one of them....I am not even an ibo, I have never live there even more closer to Yorubas than I am with the south easterners. but same cannot be said of you...everyone know here know you as a tribal bigot.
or should we do a vote on that?

you see people should be put in positions because they can deliver and not because of tribal affiliation.

you really need to change your ways...

What is my problem after what some of us said here about Iheanacho poor performance last season was confirmed by many neutral pundits?

Are dey also tribalist?

You may have soft spot for a particular tribe though you are not from there but on the other hand hate a particular tribe. That alone qualified you as a tribalist. Check your soul and don't lie to yourself.

'Everyone' you're talking about are 99% from one tribe. As you can see, it doesn't add up.

If people should be put in positions because they can deliver, what is the problem if players that can deliver are mentioned regardless of where the player and person who mention them comes from?

Even Komekn and Joebie were called tribalist because they rightfully mentioned Tammy and Onomah. But if the same fellows mention their tribes men, they are holy, righteous and perfect like God. Hahahaha!

Is that not getting out of hands? Is that not one form of intimidation?

Well, you may have succumbed but I refuse to. I will mention players good enough to play for the NIGERIAN NATIONAL Team even if those players are from one particular tribe. EOD

Now, answer why were you crying APC rigged Osun state election?

Don't tell me you hate APC for no reason.

edi287:
The guy sha. What is taking him so long to try Eze out? I like how he packed forwards sha.

I don't think he really knows what he is doing. If he does, how can he live out Eze who is out performing Etebor in the same championship league?

Sentiments is all I see in his selection many times.

forgiveness:
I don't think he really knows what he is doing. If he does, how can he live out Eze who is out performing Etebor in the same championship league?

Sentiments is all I see in his selection many times.

My own is they better not make this guy change his mind. Scotland will soon pounce on him. Time is money.

edi287:
My own is they better not make this guy change his mind. Scotland will soon pounce on him. Time is money.

Scotland coach is not like England coach. The last time I heard him speak about players eligible to play for Scotland, he made it clear that he will never go after any who has double mind to play for either for Scotland or other countries.

Besides, Eze heart and soul is to play for Nigeria though anything can change man pikin heart hence I concur he must be called now. It is frustrating to see Rohr ignore him and call Semi Ajayi and Etebor in the same league.

forgiveness:
Hmmm! you can see im just emotional attached. Nothing more nothing less.

Fixed. Mire or less. It's you that's now emotional stable and without strong bias or antagonistic features?


See this hating takes you no where. it's established that you do this and it's glaring to us all that you do it not cosyou love such a player to improve or get better. but cos you ooze undertones of unimportancr to such a player. You'll heal. This is truly stale man.

Only one moniker has called me a tribalist, and safarigirl rightly tagged his claim baseless. Just for fact sake, I have supported players from my tribe when they perform and given them a knock when they don’t, just as I have done for other players. There is no single player I have remained loyal to no matter the weather. I THINK that sets me apart from MANY monikers here.

forgiveness:
What is my problem after what some of us said here about Iheanacho poor performance last season was confirmed by many neutral pundits?

Are dey also tribalist?

You may have soft spot for a particular tribe though you are not from there but on the other hand hate a particular tribe. That alone qualified you as a tribalist. Check your soul and don't lie to yourself.

'Everyone' you're talking about are 99% from one tribe. As you can see, it doesn't add up.

If people should be put in positions because they can deliver, what is the problem if players that can deliver are mentioned regardless of where the player and person who mention them comes from?

Even Komekn and Joebie were called tribalist because they rightfully mentioned Tammy and Onomah. But if the same fellows mention their tribes men, they are holy, righteous and perfect like God. Hahahaha!

Is that not getting out of hands? Is that not one form of intimidation?

Well, you may have succumbed but I refuse to. I will mention players good enough to play for the NIGERIAN NATIONAL Team even if those players are from one particular tribe. EOD

Now, answer why were you crying APC rigged Osun state election?

Don't tell me you hate APC for no reason.

Ebere Eze is turning heads for QPR in the Sky Bet Championship. How good is he? What's he like to work with? How does he compare to Raheem Sterling? We get the inside track from former assistant manager Marc Bircham...

"He goes past players easier than Raheem Sterling did. Sterling would beat players with pace or do a trick or a chop - it's all dynamic movements, but Ebere Eze just glides past players."

Marc Bircham knows a talent when he sees one.

The former QPR assistant manager and youth team coach was part of the set-up that helped bring Sterling through the ranks in west London. However, Sterling never made a first-team appearance for the R's as Liverpool swooped when he was just 15-years-old. The rest is history.

However, after decades of neglecting the option of youth - in 15 years QPR only produced Richard Langley, Marcus Bean and Sterling - there is a new-found willingness up west to give youth a chance.

And some of the kids are alright.

At the forefront of this crop is Eberechi Eze - a unique playmaking talent that was discarded by Millwall at 18 years old. He was deemed a luxury by the Lions but QPR have embraced his talents.

This is a club that relishes and understands the patience required when watching a maverick at work. Stan Bowles, Rodney Marsh, Roy Wegerle and Adel Taarabt all were indulged at Loftus Road. They sparkled on that stage.


He’s exciting when he gets the ball. As he’s both footed, he can go both ways past people.
Bircham on Eze

Eze has the same eye for finding space in the pocket as the four above.

The 20-year-old has started every game for QPR this season, scoring his third goal of the campaign against his former employers Millwall on Wednesday night.

Playing just off the lone striker, Eze was the link man for everything positive QPR conjured up in their comfortable 2-0 victory. He got his goal and produced some inventive passing, including a mesmerising back-heel that sent Massimo Luongo through one-on-one. He's doing the sacred QPR No 10 shirt proud.

It was his second man-of-the-match display in four days following on from his classy showing in the 2-1 win at Bolton, where he netted a fine left-footed strike.

He'll be looking to make it three-from-three when QPR host Norwich on Saturday, live on Sky Sports at 5.15pm.

After a shaky start to the campaign, which included a 7-1 drubbing at West Brom, QPR have taken seven points from their last three games. With excitement around Eze's development, the buzz is back at Loftus Road after a murky pre-season picture with the somewhat harsh removal of Ian Holloway and appointment of Steve McClaren as boss.

Bircham was Holloway's assistant during their 18-month spell and took the tough decision - being a QPR man through and through - to walk away from a role at the club in order to allow McClaren a fresh start with his staff.

Bircham worked closely with Eze, whose talent in training caught the eye of Holloway within the first few weeks of him taking the job.

Just two months later, Eze was handed his full debut against Blackburn in the FA Cup in January, but sustained an injury after just 15 minutes.

A spell on the sidelines followed but an impressive period on loan at Wycombe made him more streetwise and he returned to QPR in the second half of last season, making 14 appearances and showing glimpses of his natural talent with the ball at his feet.

"In terms of his natural ability, he's up there with one of the best I've seen," Bircham told Sky Sports.

"He's exciting when he gets the ball. As he's both footed, he can go both ways past people. He gets you off your seat. If he keeps getting the ball in dangerous areas, something will happen."

Possessing the required talent to burst into a Sky Bet Championship first-team is all well and good but for longevity, players need to show mental steel, especially under the watch of Holloway and Bircham - two former pros that built their careers on hard work, graft and never backing down.

Bircham is keen on developing players' characteristics off the field to provide them with the best opportunity to make it as a professional footballer in what is a ruthless industry. He admits many young players possess the ability but lack the required attitude.

Eze isn't one of them.

"Everyone can play well when confidence is flowing, but it's about being brave when things aren't going your way," Bircham says, before explaining why he thinks Eze has the tools to reach the top.

"We played Brentford in the Carabao Cup and we made loads of changes.

"I think Eze felt he deserved to play but Ollie [Ian Holloway] dropped him as in previous appearances he wasn't showing what he could do and producing the required end product. He was disappointed.

"The next day the U23s played a very good Southampton team away from home. I went down to watch him, purely to take a look at his attitude. Most youngsters in that scenario would sulk and play as if that game was beneath them.

"Not Eze - it was probably the best game I've seen him play.

"He was outstanding - the best player on the pitch, head and shoulders above all of the Premier League academy lads playing for Southampton.

"Once I saw how he reacted after that disappointment, I went back to Ollie and said, 'He's got a great chance of making it at the highest level'."

So, you can put a big tick in the box for talent and mental toughness - but what else does Bircham think makes Eze stand out from the crowd?

One word crops up a lot in our conversation: 'Coachability'.

"He's a very intelligent lad - he can actually talk, which is nice. Most young lads are just texting and WhatsApping," Bircham admits.

"It's sad to say but just being able to talk to people is an art-form these days for a young player. Eze can go as far as he wants if he keeps talking, listening and learning."

Bircham recalls another example of Eze's capabilities to listen and learn.

After a sticky run of results, he called Eze and another young QPR talent Bright Osayi-Samuel into his office after they both flattered to deceive in a couple of substitute appearances against Bristol City and Sheffield United.

He said: "I looked at the stats after the game and they had one cross between them and no shots. They were playing sideways and backwards. I said: 'Why are you playing like a central midfielder? You had no shots or crosses, I could have done that'.

"I wanted to really get into them, but shouting at youngsters these days doesn't work. So, I gave them the disappointed dad telling off.

"I think my words helped. The next time he came off the bench, the first thing he did was have a shot. That showed me he can take information on board. If I had his talent, I'd never pass it!"

Eze is certainly shooting this season.

Bircham - still a regular visitor to Loftus Road - wants to see the youngster maintain the levels he has hit over the past month. Flamboyant performances and moments of brilliance no doubt keep the social media team happy at QPR but goals and assists are what will define Eze - his scruffy finish against Millwall certainly shows signs of life in that department.

With that in mind, inevitably, our chat turns to whether QPR can keep hold of their shining light.

QPR played a bit of a blinder to convince Eze, who was subject of strong interest from elsewhere, to put pen to paper on a new contract, keeping him at Loftus Road until 2021.

James Maddison - starring in a similar role for Norwich last season - fetched £24m in the summer while £30m was touted for playmaker Jack Grealish amid serious intent to buy from Tottenham. With the market as it is, QPR, who are of course under significant financial restraints after being hit by a settlement of almost £42m for breaching Financial Fair Play rules, could have a golden ticket on their hands.


Bircham admits the vultures have already been circling.

"Premier League clubs were looking at him, they'd ring me up to get references about him and to see what his personality was like," he says.

"He hasn't got a chip on his shoulder. He loves his football and wants to get better."

The Loftus Road locals were robbed of the opportunity to see Sterling progress up close - but they may just have another star on their hands.

Instead of watching from afar, they can enjoy the ride with this one.

I don’t think there is a battle between Etebo and Eze. However, Mikel’s omission should have given room for Eze. We could have sacrificed Shehu who is not match-fit. Nine defenders were listed if I’m not mistaken.

forgiveness:
I don't think he really knows what he is doing. If he does, how can he live out Eze who is out performing Etebor in the same championship league?

Sentiments is all I see in his selection many times.

forgiveness:
Who are him people? Come out loud and clear safa.

your family members now. Since Kayode is your nephew, na the same family una from come. I just did not want to say your family members, make nobody come talk say I too rude

I agree totally with that okadigbo quote

forgiveness:
Wow! The truth has been manifested and the judgement has been given yet dem no wan gree

A host of Premier League clubs are believed to be monitoring the progress of Queens Park Rangers talisman Eberechi Eze.

The 20-year old has been influential in the R’s recent revival in the Championship, and put in a sensational performance against Millwall, where he scored in Rangers’ 2-0 victory on Tuesday night.

That was Eze’s third goal for the West London side this season, and his pace, skill and mature decision-making make him a tantalising prospect for the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur, who have all reportedly watched Eze this season.

A move across London could be too good to turn down for Eze as he looks to move forward in his career, but would Eze be able to cope with a move to top-six Premier League side in Tottenham Hotspur?

We discuss…

George Harbey

It would no doubt be a huge move if Eze was to sign for Spurs in January – they don’t really tend to send players out on loan, and it’s more of a case of “if you’re good enough you’re old enough” for Pochettino,

Out of all the teams in the top-six, I think Spurs is definitely the right club for the QPR man.

Alfie Burns

If Eze decides to move to one of the ‘big six’ I think Spurs is the right destination for him.

A move only across London would help the forward, whilst Spurs have a reputation of giving youngsters a chance, unlike their rivals.

He’d fit seamlessly into the squad.

George Dagless

It could be a good idea.

Spurs have obvious quality and can bring through young players – look at Dele Alli.

He should seek assurances of playing time but it would be a decent move for him to make.