They were waiting for it: Agent says first choice for Super Eagles coaching job is now free

The agent of one of the shortlisted coaches for the vacant post of head coach of the senior Nigeria national team says the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has a coach in mind for the position. GolNigeria.com own reports.

The Super Eagles have been without a coach since the departure of Finidi George following poor performances and results in the World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic respectively.

They were beaten 2-1 by Benin Republic after drawing 1-1 with South Africa at home. The result left them fifth in the six-team group, four points behind leaders Rwanda.

The NFF technical committee selected three coaches to interview, with Eric Chelle being chosen ahead of the duo of Tom Saintfeit and Steve McClaren. However, it appears the job was reserved for a coach who is now free, according to the representative of one of the shortlisted candidates for the post.

“They (the NFF) were waiting to hear from Hervé Renard before handing the job over to someone. I heard about it from someone close to the NFF president, Ibrahim Musa Gusau. A meeting was held in France last month with his representative,” he said.

“My client did not feel bad in any way because that is the game. However, they should have made that clear instead of giving the impression that it is a free and fair competition. If Renard says no, they might come after us,” he concluded.