NFF Technical Director Austin Eguavoen has come out in support of Eric Chelle’s decision to include Kelechi Iheanacho in the Super Eagles’ 39-man provisional squad for the World Cup qualifiers.
Eric Chelle unveiled his 39-man provisional squad on March 4, with Kelechi Iheanacho’s inclusion raising eyebrows, having scored three goals with Sevilla while struggling to make a mark at Middlesbrough following his loan move in January.
The experienced striker began the season with Sevilla, but struggled to secure a consistent starting spot in the team, scoring three Copa Del Rey goals while starting just five La Liga games before being loaned to Middlesbrough in January. His struggles continued at the Championship club, where he has failed to score or provide an assist in five appearances.
However, NFF Technical Director Austin Eguavoen has justified Kelechi Iheanacho’s inclusion in the squad, stating on Monday Night Football that omitting him would be unfair. “It’s not fair on Kelechi Iheanacho if Eric Chelle makes a 39 man list and he isn’t involved. If it’s a 23 or 25 man list, that’s fine,” he said.
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Eguavoen’s statement appears to support Iheanacho’s inclusion in the provisional squad, but also hints that the striker may not make the final cut. With other strikers like Victor Osimhen, Cyriel Dessers, and Tolu Arokodare in consistent form, and with Sadiq Umar’s recent impressive performances, Iheanacho faces stiff competition for a spot in the final squad which will be announced this week.
The national team’s priority remains securing victory in their upcoming World Cup qualifier clashes. The Super Eagles will face Rwanda on March 21 in Kigali, followed by a match against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on March 25 and victory is non-negotiable in both games.
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