Ex-Nigeria international, Garba Lawal, has warned against turning the country’s men and women’s national teams into dumping grounds for footballers not good enough to represent the country.
There’s been an influx of players of Nigerian descent born abroad in both the Super Eagles and Super Falcons in recent times, with their decision to choose Nigeria largely seen as a last resort after failing to earn a place in the countries of their birth.
Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has not hidden his liking for Nigerian players born abroad ahead of talents in the domestic league, bringing in the likes of Tyrone Ebuehi, Kevin Akpoguma, Ola Aina, Joe Aribo, Cyriel Dessers, Maduka Okoye and Semi Ajayi, who are all born to Nigerian parents abroad into the national team.
The coach has also watched helplessly as the likes of Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka, Roma striker Tammy Abraham and AC Milan defender, Fikayo Tomori, committed their international future to England despite interest from Nigeria, while exciting forward, Karim Akinyemi, amongst others opted for Germany.
Genk forward, Ike Ugbo, on Tuesday revealed his intention to play for Nigeria at senior level, having represented England at U-17 and U-20 levels, stating that he’ll have greater success at making the Eagles than the Three Lions.
However, Lawal warned against turning the country’s national team to a dumping site.
“Any player that’s not good to play for England or Germany is not good enough for the Super Eagles,” Lawal told The PUNCH.
“If they feel that the England national team is too big for them, then they are not good for us. I’m not kicking against Nigerian players born abroad coming to play for us but we have to take only the best and not just any player.”
Credit: punchng.com
