‘It’s not Santa Claus’: NPFL players fail to impress Super Eagles coach again

The chances of a future invitation of NPFL players to the Super Eagles are not guaranteed, suggested Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.

Chelle named two NPFL players in the Super Eagles XI that beat Zimbabwe 2-0 in the Unity Cup semi-final match on Tuesday.

Chibueze Oputa and Kenneth Igboke got the nod from Chelle as starters on their debut for the Super Eagles, while Aderemi Adeoye came off the bench late in the match.

Speaking after the match, Chelle praised the trio for showing a “willingness to adapt, despite clear tactical and technical deficiencies.”

Also read: Unity Cup: NFF clarifies the status of the Super Eagles… Femi Azeez shines in his debut

“This is just a friendly match, not World Cup qualification or AFCON. They need to work hard, understand what I want and the high level is difficult,” said Eric Chelle in response to how the NPFL players fared.

“I just need some time to do my job; scout and work with players in the (NPFL) league. It could be like a project if they (NFF) want.”

“But I’m not Santa Claus, this is not a gift. I’ll have to judge his performance.”