JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
New Nigeria senior national team coach Janne Andersson is expected to make some changes to the team when he officially takes over as Finidi George’s replacement, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has chosen 61-year-old Andersson as the team’s new coach, preferring the duo of Tom Saintfeit and Eric Chelle, who were the last two remaining on a four-man shortlist.
He is expected to lead the team into the African Cup of Nations qualifiers in September against Benin Republic and Rwanda respectively. We pick out five changes he is likely to make to the line-up he will inherit following his official unveiling as coach.
1. Okoye returns as No. 1: It’s an idea that is gaining ground based on the former Udinese No. 1’s impressive performances in Italy’s Serie A. He made two late saves yesterday to help his side salvage a 1-1 draw against Bologna. Although Stanley Nwabali is firmly established as the first choice, Okoye’s weekly performances in a top 5 European league will certainly put Chippa United’s reign as first choice goalkeeper in jeopardy.
2. Benjamin Tanimu Out: A favourite of former coach Finidi, who used him in three of the four games he took charge of as manager, a decision that was questioned by some senior players in the team who had doubts about his readiness for such a high level. His recent transfer to another mid-table Tanzanian club, Singida FC, from Ihefu FC, might not be enough to keep him in the mix for future call-ups.
3. Bring back Aribo: Andersson is a fan of hard-working players and that is what Aribo brings, especially if the build-up is right. Reduced to a supporting role by Jose Peseiro at the Africa Cup of Nations and discarded by Finidi, the Southampton midfielder has the kind of profile the new manager wants in his team.
4. Ending Musa’s international career: Despite not having played a full 90 minutes in almost two seasons, team captain Ahmed Musa recently said he is still fit for the national team. Andersson could make sure that doesn’t happen, especially if he remains without a club. The coach places a lot of value on players who are having a run of regular matches at club level.
5. A new centre-back is needed: Four of the experienced centre-backs, Leon Balogun, William Troost-Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo and Semi Ajayi, are already over 30. The manager will have to make a big decision about their future when the match resumes.
Mohamed Mowiz Suleiman
