By Obaloluwa Joshua, LAGOS
Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has explained why he has continued to hand opportunities to new players during recent outings, including the Unity Cup and the international friendly against Poland, Prompt News Online reports.
Chelle named eight home-based players in his squad for the Unity Cup invitational tournament, as part of his efforts to expand the team’s options and build for the future.
Several players made their senior international debuts during the competition, including Femi Azeez, Owen Oseni, Arthur Okonkwo, and Rafiu Durosinmi.
Banik Ostrava defender Abdullahi Bewene also earned his first Super Eagles cap in the friendly against Poland, while Genk defender Christian Akpan has received his maiden call-up for the upcoming friendly against Portugal.
According to Chelle, introducing new faces into the squad is essential to the team’s development and long-term growth, as it increases competition for places and provides the coaching staff with more options ahead of future competitions.
“We have analysed our game over the past year and have tried to bring in players who can help the team grow,” Chelle told the Super Eagles media.
“We need to improve because, for me and for everyone, it is often the smallest details that make the difference between being the best team and winning a trophy.
“So we have to improve because we analyse everything. I think we have to bring in some young players who can bring a new mentality and something new.”
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