I could not leave it out: Chelle defends the controversial inclusion of the star of Super Eagles

The chief coach of the national senior team of Nigeria Eric Chelle has defended his decision to include Adela Lookman in the team before his next games against Rwanda and South Africa, respectively, in the World Cup qualifiers, reports Owngoalnigeria.com.

Lookman has been inactive for more than two months after going on strike to force a movement to Inter Milan from Atalanta. He returned and could not play a game before his call from Nigeria.

Chelle was asked about his decision to include the transfer rebell, largely due to the fact that he has not played a minute this season, and the coach said it is a decision that has to make for the good of the team.

“I can’t make a team and leave the best African player out of my team. I know the transfer situation and not play for Atalanta, but it is my work to make decisions and I think it will be helpful for us tomorrow,” said the coach before tomorrow’s game against Ruanda in Uyo.

He went further to explain the type of paper, the 27-year-old will probably play in the game against Rwanda, who cannot afford to lose after falling nine points behind the leaders of Grupo South Africa after his 3-0 victory over Lesotho today.

“I will decide after today’s training when I will play it. Maybe 15 minutes, 5 minutes or 60 minutes. It’s my job and we’ll see tomorrow.”

Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman