Chelle justifies new call-ups for Poland, Portugal friendlies
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has opened up on his decision to invite new players for the friendlies against Poland and Portugal.
The former Mali coach called up eight Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) players in the squad for the Unity Cup while handing senior debuts to the likes of Femi Azeez, Owen Oseni, Arthur Okonkwo and Rafiu Durosinmi in the tournament.
Banik Ostrava’s Abdullahi Bewene earned his first cap against Poland while Christian Akpan earned his first call-up for the friendly against Portugal.
Chelle explained that his decision to include new players in the team was to help improve the competitiveness following a review of the team’s performance last year.
He said: “We have analysed our game over the past year and have tried to bring in players who can help the team grow.
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“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,” he added.
The trio of Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi and Christian Akpan have joined the 19 players in camp to begin preparations for the clash against Portugal.
Nigeria will take on Portugal on Wednesday, June 10.
