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Rohr Lists Mikel, Chukwueze, 23 Others In Super Eagles’ AFCON 2019 Provisional Squad

Rohr Lists Mikel, Chukwueze, 23 Others In Super Eagles’ AFCON 2019 Provisional Squad

Super Eagles Coach Gernot Rohr has recalled Mikel John Obi, in a 25-man squad to prepare for the 32nd Africa Cup of Nations finals in Egypt this summer, reports Completesports.com.

Rohr also named winger Ahmed Musa and defenders; Kenneth Omeruo and Abdullahi Shehu in his provisional squad.

Mikel, who captained the team at the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia , has not been with the group since Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to Argentina in Saint Petersburg.

But according to the Communications Department of the Nigeria Football Federation, a recent meeting with Coach Rohr in the United Kingdom sealed Mikel’s return to the three–time African champions, with the possibility of adding to his 85 international caps.

Rohr has largely kept faith with the Trojans who earned a ticket to the AFCON 2019 finals with a match to spare, with goalkeeper Francis Uzoho, defenders Leon Balogun and William Ekong; midfielders Oghenekaro Etebo and Wilfred Ndidi, and forwards Odion Ighalo, Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon also on the rollcall.

Rohr has also put on standby six players, namely; defenders Ikouwem Utin and Valentine Ozornwafor who have also been named in Nigeria’s final 21 for the FIFA U-20 World Cup starting in Poland next week.

The Franco-German tactician explained to thenff.com that he has included the two players knowing the FIFA U-20 World Cup will end on 15thJune, six days before the first match will be played at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

2018 FIFA World Cup defender Bryan Idowu is also on standby, along with Portugal–based Mikel Agu and Egypt-based Junior Ajayi, and home–based goalkeeper Theophilus Afelokhai.

All invited players and officials are to report at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Asaba on Sunday, 2nd June ahead of the friendly with the Warriors of Zimbabwe at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on Saturday, 8th June.

The team will depart for Egypt on Sunday, 9thJune aboard a chartered aircraft, set up a final training camp in the city of Ismailia and tackle Africa’s number one –ranked team, Senegal in their final pre-AFCON friendly on Sunday, 16th June.

Nigeria confront Burundi, Guinea and Madagascar in that order in Group B of the 32nd Africa Cup of Nations taking place in four Egyptian cities 21stJune – 19th July.

25 EAGLES FOR AFCON 2019 CAMP

Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho (Anorthosis Famagusta, Cyprus); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Katsina United); Daniel Akpeyi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa)

Defenders: Olaoluwa Aina (Torino FC, Italy); Abdullahi Shehu (Bursaspor FC, Turkey); Chidozie Awaziem (Caykur Rizespor, Turkey); William Ekong (Udinese FC, Italy); Leon Balogun (Brighton & Hove Albion, England); Kenneth Omeruo (CD Leganes, Spain); Jamilu Collins (SC Padeborn 07, Germany); Semi Ajayi (Rotherham United, England)

Midfielders: Mikel John Obi (Middlesbrough FC, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Oghenekaro Etebo (Stoke City FC, England); John Ogu (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel)

Forwards: Ahmed Musa (Al Nassar FC, Saudi Arabia); Victor Osimhen (Royal Charleroi SC, Belgium); Moses Simon (Levante FC, Spain); Henry Onyekuru (Galatasaray SK, Turkey); Odion Ighalo (Shanghai Shenhua, China); Alexander Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England); Samuel Kalu (Girondins Bordeaux, France); Paul Onuachu (FC Midtjyland, Denmark); Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England); Samuel Chukwueze (Villarreal FC, Spain)

Six On Standby: Theophilus Afelokhai (Enyimba FC); Bryan Idowu (Lokomotiv Moscow, Russia); Ikouwem Utin (Enyimba FC); Mikel Agu (Vitoria Setubal, Portugal); Junior Ajayi (Al Ahly, Egypt); Valentine Ozornwafor (Enyimba FC)

By Johnny Edward

 

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COMMENTS

WORDPRESS: 158
  • Ikeben 5 years ago

    A good list as I predicted, only with the exception of Kelechi, who has been given a last minute chance to prove he deserves to be in Afcon. A fair list in all as expected.

    Wishing Super Eagles a great AFCON

  • Oga Rohr is very predictable, I knew there wouldn’t be any much change, but why iheanacho? He should rather concentrate in discovering his form for next season, though I know he wouldn’t make the final 23.

  • Two players to go should be iheanacho and Moses

  • greenturf 5 years ago

    Azubuike Okechukwu should be in this team other than that a very good list.

    • Sunnyb 5 years ago

      What’s iheanacho name doing in this list. Rohr needs  to be very careful, this Afcon would be very tough we need our best legs not some lazy players. Moses would be in Egypt the guy is very skillful better winger than Onyeballl, precise I don’t think  Kalu  is fully fit.

  • Ako Amadi 5 years ago

    No surprises! No gambling! A good list. Rohr has been very cautious but I was hoping he would place Igboun, Nwankwo and Nwakaeme on the waiting list. Young Kelechi Iheanacho gets a second chance to rediscover himself

  • Raphael 5 years ago

    The coach did a good job by sticking to his well known soldiers. There is no time to begin try new players and it will be easy for him to drop jux 2 players from d bunch. Maybe Kelechi and other player based on his current form which is not convincing.The coach need to be at the african world cup with atleast a natural left footer which Samu fills the void. All the best to the team.

  • Pompei 5 years ago

    Like play, like play, see Kele for list! The boy has been working hard in Leicester training sessions, as confirmed by Oga Rodgers. And this has not escaped the notice of the astute Rohr. Now the stage is set for Kele to remind us of what we have been missing. Very good list. Gone are the days of nepotism and man-know-man. Every body here thoroughly deserves to be there. A a big boost to have the captain back. Would have loved to see Zubby on the list, but no wahala. Let’s go for the cup!

  • emeka cyprain 5 years ago

    Good list mr GH… am glad to see skipoooo back our engine room. Goodluck SE.

  • Elsabi 5 years ago

    Very good

  • Chairmanfemi 5 years ago

    Highlighting the Squad.
    A VERY GOOD LIST

    THE GOALKEEPING DEPARTMENT
    Coach Gernot Rohr has stick to his trustees at this department. Many wanted Nwokolor in the team prior to this announcement but I will say Coach Gernot Rohr is right leaving out Nwokolor. Why? cuz David Nwokolor serves as a Third choice in his club and most times when I follow up his team Sered myself, he only appears in some Cup games and very very limited league games. Am sure many people were just following the Crowd in shouting for Nwokolor’s inclusion without knowing this fact. The trio of Ezenwa, Akpeyi and Uzoho have seen game time this season and During Uzoho’s crisis at his club, the Coach sent the Goalkeeper trainer Pionetti to work with him so as to keep him in shape for the tournament. Afelokhai also deserves to be on the Standby cuz he’s had an outstanding season coupled with the fact that he’s been invited to the team before so in case he is called up later, it no big deal. Kudos to the Coach as for this department.

    THE DEFENSE
    I will say almost All our defenders except Balogun has had a very great Season in their respective clubs and they all merit the invitation. Balogun: we all know he can’t be excluded from this team due to his chemistry with Ekong and High level of intelligence and experience. Good defense heading to the AFCON.

    THE MIDFIELD
    Personally, am so elated seeing the MIKEL OBI back in that mix. We all know that Iwobi and Semi Ajayi is partially part of this mix. The captain brings experience, balance, moral-booster to the midfield and the team at large. Very compact midfield. They all merit it. For those who feel Azubuike Okechukwu or Onazi should have been in this group, tell me who Azubuike can displace in this midfield? Ndidi? Etebo? Ogu? Captain Fantastic? No. I only think he should have at least been on the standby. We all know Onazi is injured. So great midfield.

    THE ATTACK
    Fearful attack it really is. OMG!! Fire! Fire! everywhere. I bet this is the strength of the team. Apart from the inclusion of Ihenacho, who I feel Coach Gernot displayed maturity in inviting him. Maturity as per, He(Ihenacho) is an integral part of the team. He has been with the team for long and also helped in the qualification process Only that he found things going tough at his club side and he’s been really struggling. So his invitation is like a chance for him to prove to the coach that the allegations he made against him at the pre-match conference against Seychelles/Egypt were all jokes and prove that he’s truly a valuable asset.

    My Final say,
    Dropping two people in this team is going to be a real work cuz the boys are all good but I think am sure of one person being dropped which is Kelechi Ihenacho. But who is this other guy???
    Also, with this team, A semi-final berth I say is 90% sure.

    • shiggoh 5 years ago

      check your fact very well about Nwokolor.

    • Paschal 5 years ago

      I personally think one person between Moses Simon and Samuel Kalu may be dropped. Since Kalu is just returning from injury, am afraid his form may be suspect. If he happens to be in top form then am afraid Moses may be sacrificed.

      • Paschal 5 years ago

        Awaziem is another guy who doesnt fit the bill yet. I would personally suggest that Awaziem and Iheanacho be dropped.

  • Kalu have not been playing for his club, who knows his fitness level? Either him or Moses and iheanacho should be dropped

  • Well I don’t want to be a party poopers, but i have to tell you people, you got no goalkeepers. Therefore you can’t win the tournament. Finito. Sorry people.

  • Highstar 5 years ago

    good list I must say ,but iheancho doesn’t even deserve to be on standby.i think awaziem should be dropped together with him

  • Xhuxhu 5 years ago

    Good Squad list, I must say..Glad to see John Obi Mikel back although,I was against his behaviour during the qualifying matches.I am also elated seeing Kelechi back to the team, I hope he grabs this opportunity.
    Our Attack is most definitely the strength of this team, we also have a good midfield, my only suspect position is our Goalkeepers.
    It looks like it will be an interesting AFCON, this time around all the Big African teams are here..no be small games we go watch..

  • I think he should have invited a 4th goalkeeper, even if it’s just for formality. I don’t like the idea of students knowing they have passed an exam, even before it is written.

    Rohr’s real work is dropping the 2 players from the list. Kelechi & Moses? Please Rohr should not touch my Kalu oo. Or Chukwuze or Osimhen. Don’t even think it!

    • Pompei 5 years ago

      Rohr should not touch your Kalu ooo. Hehehe Kel, na ya pikin?
      I am ready to drag Kalu with you, because Kalu belongs to all of us. Who no like better thing? 🙂

      • Hehehe @Pompei, yes o. Every body like better thing nah. Kalu, Osimhen and Chukwueze are 3 of my favourites SE players. Although I know Rohr will always stick with his Ighalo and Musa upfront.

        • Pompei 5 years ago

          You’re right my brother. Kalu,Osimhen and Chukwueze……that’s a deadly attacking trifecta. And to think we also have Onyekuru, Musa, Ighalo, Onuachu and others who are also capable. The attack is definitely our strongest department. The weather forecast says it will be raining goals in Egypt!

          • I hope it won’t be “goals against” too.

            Omo9ja is making a lot of sense here.

      • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

        U gys are such a funny bunch….lolz

  • Omo9ja 5 years ago

    Good list. Kudos to coach Rohr.
    I’m not convinced with the goalkeeping department.

    I hope coach Rohr won’t regret his action in Egypt. We as Nigerians fans told the coach that he have to invited Onuachu, the trusted and realiable striker and the guy proved himself to coach Rohr.

    Now, why the coach refused to tryout new goalies? He should remember that this is the last opportunity for him.

    I won’t be deceived by him for the second time. As it stands now, I’m peaking Ezenwa as No1 goalkeeper. Sebastian Ogenna Osigwe deserves to be on this list but why he wasn’t included? CSN can you please ask the coach that question?

    Akpeyi have been in that team for so long and he have nothing to prove to anyone no more.

    This goalkeeping department is very weak. So, over 170 to 180 millions Nigerians, this are the best goalkeepers both home and abroad?
    The question is for coach Rohr and his fans. Is there any hope? God bless Nigeria!!!

    • Xhuxhu 5 years ago

      U are spot on Bro..170million people and we can’t produce a good goalkeeper.Even Nigerians in Diaspora, we can’t find someone better than these bunch..I am not so confident about out Goalkeepers. uzoho’s mistake during the Seychelles game comes to mind.

      • Omo9ja 5 years ago

        Yes bro. As far as I’m concerned, We don’t have goalkeepers for this tournament.

        Kelechi will make the final list for one reason. His boldness against any opponent. Only God can say no to that. I know many people be angry with me now but that is the truth.

        Kelechi will make Nigeria proud again because is in him. Oga Rohr knows that.

        Two things that will let this team down are coach Rohr and goalkeeping department.

        The ability of the coach is in doubt while our keepers are not up to the tasks.

        Like I said before, I just want to watch good football. If Nigerians wins the tournament, I will celebrate them and if they failed to wins it, I won’t be surprised.

        It’s not about star players in the team but team work and the technicality of the coach.

        For these reasons, I remain humbled. I can’t predict how far we can go in the tournament. I wish the coach and Super Eagles a good outing in Egypt. Ire o. God bless Nigeria!!!

    • Paschal 5 years ago

      Theophilus Afelokhai should have been made to displace Akpeyi in this team. The sight of him between the sticks alone brings smells of goals against us. He ushers in plenty atmosphere of incompetence, own goals, keeper’s errors and lack of confidence. Even when he holds a ball i get afraid that he may soon spill it. Not until he has played it out do I feel relieved again. The guy should be playing gulf or table tennis.

  • Sintali 5 years ago

    This is a good squad. Iheanacho will not make it to this tournament, but his invitation will serve as a moral buster. My appeal to the Coach is to use Mikel as defensive midfielder not attacking mid-fielder.

    • greenturf 5 years ago

      What makes you think Iheanacho will not make the final list?

  • Gritty 5 years ago

    Beautiful List!
    Congrats to all our top professionals on this list.
    Pls our Able & Amiable G.Rhor kindly examine these points:
    1. During the AFCON, no player should be a ‘sacred cow’; any player who is, perhaps, not fitting well to a particular match should be promptly substituted as our bench is equally as very good as the starting XI.
    2. Train at least two free kick (Set piece) specialists in your (any) starting XI; Every opportunity must be optimally utilized.
    3. Train and note your best penalty takers and goalkeeper.
    4. Bring in various tricks and tactics of soccer to your team; imagine Liverpool’ 4th (corner ball) goal trick against Barcelona ~ UCL semi!
    5. Learn to instruct or bring in attacker(s) who can commit defenders for penalties in tough situations.

    I hope you will not perpetually bench Iwobi at the AM bcos of Mikel and others bcos of Musa and Ighalo? Should any of these your choice players fades away in a particular game pls sir do not hesitate to substitute them with more inform player.

    Go do your country (Nigeria) proud super eagles!!!

    • Paschal 5 years ago

      Which of these goal keepers can you say is a penalty expert now? Hmmmmm. If a game enters penalties, we don enter one chance be that ohhhh hahahaha. Ezenwa will just be flying around like a hungry butterfly hahaha.

  • Xhuxhu 5 years ago

    My Starting Eleven
    Uzoho
    Aina. Troost. Omeruo. Collins
    Ndidi. Ogu
    Iwobi
    Kalu. Ighalo. Musa.

    • You are not even sure whether Kalu will make the team and you are already putting him in your first eleven. Having missed matches for some months now his fitness level is still in doubt.

      • @Goal, the 2 that will be dropped are any of these 3:

        Chigozie Awaziem
        Moses Simon
        Kelechi Iheanacho.

        Very like the first 2. Kalu I’m sure will make the team, even with a little rustiness.

      • Ikeben 5 years ago

        It is too early to know who will be dropped by now. After the coach sees them and trains with them, there maybe one or two hiding injuries or fitness issues. And we can’t also rule out new injury even if i don’t pray for that. So those branding names for dropping may soon eat their words. If you remember Echiejele was dropped before the 2014 world cup, so also with Moses Simon before the last world cup, even when they where in fine form with their clubs then.

        So lets wait at least for 3 weeks to see who will fallout from the team.

    • greenturf 5 years ago

      Mikel would start.I believe Rohr will adopt a 3.5.2 formation to accommodate in form Omeruo.I think the team would line up in this format,

      Uzoho Omeruo,Balogun,Ekong. Kalu,Collins. Mikel,Ndidi,Etebo. Musa,Ighalo.

      • Fine,ur selection not bad. However to win a competition u need more than ur first eleven.
        Liverpool and Tottenham are not in the final bcos of just their first eleven players.
        If Ndidi needs a rest or gets injured who who on dat list is a specialist nmba 4 to replace him?
        If someone says dat Nigeria doesn’t have nmba 4’s of d ilk of Ndidi,dat wud be a lie.
        We are talking winning a competition not how beautiful d starting eleven is.

      • Yes. The form of Omeruo and the fact Rohr is enamoured of Balogun despite his lack of playing time for club will constrain Rohr to always deploy the 3-5-2 formation to accommodate Omeruo.

  • dayo joel 5 years ago

    midfield and attack
    Ndidi
    Mikel Etebo/Iwobi(AM)
    Chukwueze(RW). Samuel Kalu/Onyekuru(LW)
    Ighalo (CF)

  • Kelechi and Semi Ajayi/Awaziem will be dropped from this team. Moses Simon is a reliable player anytime anyday.

  • This coach has started again. My issue is with his midfield. Why does he always do this. It took us time to convince him on his fixation with Onazi,now he brings us this.
    Will you “kill” Ndidi first before you know Ndidi needs a veritable replacement? Don’t tell me Ogu or Mikel. Ogu is nt a natural nmba and u know Obi Mikel is in dis team to play in front of Ndidi.Our nmba 2,Shehu is a natural nmba 4,so why nt use him as a deputy to Ndidi. We don’t have any beta nmba2 now? Dat is not true WE HAVE,WE HAVE O.

    What’s the issue with adding a specialist nmba 4 to dis list. Let him compete favourably with Ndidi. The annoying thing is that we have payers who fit d bill.We want to play to win so our best legs must be there. Ndidi needs a veritable deputy,let’s take care of d best nmba4 in England.
    Welcome back Capo.
    I hope d coach is not looking at Emery,dats for Arsenal(my club),Iwobi is best tru d middle,so he shud be among d midfielders compulsorily. He is currently d best dribbler in his club,he can do a lot for us tru middle.
    By d way now wud av been a gud tym to introduce an Azubike or Nwakali. Capo and Ogu wud soon exit d team bcos of age. We shud look ahead.

    • It was a tired midfield dat cost us against d Argies at d WCup. D coach had John Ogu on d bench,yet he left him der. Mikel’s legs were gone, Ndidi not far behind.
      Der shud av been no reason why Argentina shud beat us.D coach simply ddnt help matters. Seeking to sub Musa wen d real issue was d midfield. Infact dat half-caste nmba2 was on d bench,d coach cud have brot him in(to secure our defense&run at dem too),then moved Victor Moses forward to cause d Argies problems.

      Now dis is d Afcon, we ALL KNOW that dis is by far more physical dan d World Cup.
      Mr Rohr amazes me at times o.

      • Omo9ja 5 years ago

        God bless you bro. This is what I have been saying but coach Rohr fans called it hate. They will go against you now because you have pointed out the weaken points of the coach. Kanu is the only person that can help coach Rohr solving this problem. It is not late to call king Kanu on board for this Afcon.

        We have watched part in Russia and this is part two in Egypt which the coach and his fans have no choice but to deliver a good result in Egypt. They just don’t have a choice, they have to. God bless Nigeria!!!

        • Thanks bro. Good u have been saying same.
          Even Pep of ManCity meks mistakes and learns.
          Mr Rohr is not above mistakes and he did quite a nmba at d WCup. We don’t say crucify him,but we shud humbly learn.
          On d bench must be an able replacement for those on d field. There is hole dat is gaping in dis midfield selection. Let’s tell ourselves d truth.

          • Without doubt Kanu Nwankwo has such an intelligent football brain.
            But I’m not in touch with news as to whether he wants to.

            Mr Rohr needs all the help he can enlist.
            Lessons shud be learnt.

        • Ndidi , Ogu, Mikel, Etebo are all defensive midfilders.
          My complain is that we have only one attacking midfielder in Iwuobi.
          Except Rhor would use Chukwueze as #8 or#10.

          Ideally we should be an attacking team.

          Ezenwa
          Aina Ekong Omeruo/Balogun
          Shehu Ndidi Mikel Iwuobi Kalu
          Chukwueze/Musa Ighalo/Onachu

          Coach Rhorshould make timely and effective substitutions.
          Many times i wish Westerhof or Philip Trouser is here now to harness the talents we have available now.

          Good luck to the Super Eagles, one of the few things nigeria i can still identify with.

          • Pls don’t joke with our DM position pls,we need a proper deputy for Ndidi.
            Yeah I spoke on Iwobi before, I wonder if Rohr sees him as d most creative tru d middle.

    • Chairmanfemi 5 years ago

      I bet this guy @Oge knows nothing about the Super Eagles or football cuz if you truly do, shouting about a replacement for Ndidi won’t bother you when you have SEMI AJAYI in the team. I bet he doesn’t even know who Semi is. You even mentioned another capable replacement in Shehu Abdulahi and yet you still keep on complaining…mtcheeew. Not surprised your brother came to join you in the process @Omo9ja. Birds of same feather flocks together. As per who cost us at the WC has nothing to do with the midfield! You can go and watch it again. Rather it was the Wing Backs/Tired defense and Ighalo. So what are you saying??? Please go and learn more about football before Coming Here

      • Nor be quarry,nor dey “mtcheeew” der.
        I saw Semi before I commented. A country of over 180 million people? U depend on a defender who can also play as a nmba 4,as a back up for Ndidi? Who does dat? Does England do dat? Spain,Germany,who?
        Does d coach even see him as a backup?U shud ask ursef dat. D Shehu I mentioned,how many times has d gaffer tested him as nmba4? Yet der has been glaring opportunities to test him. So it’s now u think d coach will consider him der? Pls be realistic na.
        We have specialist nmba 4’s who can complement Ndidi. Is dis point not simple enough? No need to manage,we have d players,dis is Nigeria not Lesotho(wit all due respect to dis country),SO LET’S ACT LIKE A BIG FOOTBALLING NATION WE ARE.

        On d WC,the Tyronne,I mentioned in my post is he not a wingback? So wat are u saying?I said he wud av been brot in and Victor Moses moved 4wad. Moses was alredy tiring,I know if u moved him 4wad he wud av been re-invigorated bcos he rily ddnt fancy d wingback role at d WC, if u can remmbr. Moses knew he needed to play in attack to help his case at his club bcos Sarri will definitely ditch d wingback system.

        See if u say defense was tired,U PROVE ME RYT dat our midfield was “tireder”. D midfield had collapsed,so dey began to pressure our defense. PLS ANALYSE WELL.

        • Mr Hush 5 years ago

          @Oge

          I do understand your worry.
          Respectable so;
          But there are a lot of flaws.

          1. The world cup is like yesterday.
          It is a past event.
          We should look forward to the Afcon.
          We can’t keep crucify ing the coach for the world cup,when he has done well after ,and there is another major tournament right in front of us.
          Whether we like it or not,he is going to take us there,so we can only be objective and wait ,see how things goes ,then we judge.
          Yesterday never tells tomorrow.

          2. Population doesn’t change anything.
          You might be 300million ,500million,that doesn’t matter in sports.
          If population plays football,I think China,USA, Indonesia,India,Pakistan , Bangladesh would be football world champions.
          You just have to have the right set of people that plays such sport in the highest level.
          Yes,we are a footballing nation;yes,we got the population; but hoe much of that population,in the last decade, have really been playing the game in the highest level.
          It is glaring,that the level of Nigeria football is dropping,year in year out,and this is against the backdrop of population growth.
          It means,we are have a higher population,but our football administration doesn’t meet up to that population growth.
          It is just basic…

          3. You play with the players available to you.if you are lucky enough to have 23 world class players,good for you.
          If you don’t,good for..what matters,is that you build your team accordingly.because football must go on.

          What we have right now,is high percentage of quality in attack.
          We have manageable quality in defence.
          Minimal number in midfield.and low quality in the goal keeping department.

          What that means is that our strength is in the attack,so we build our team based on attacking flair.
          That’s what the coach should be doing.
          Something like the man city, Barcelona,Real Betis and Liverpool,who depend more on what Klopp calls,’gegen pressing’;high pressing, so everyone is on attack mode.
          After all,the best form of defence is attack .
          But who am I,I think coach Rohr knows best.it is his team.

          4. And yeah..
          You can always play players out of position,if they have the quality to play there.infact,it is nothing new,it is an added advantage for a team to have a player that can be a utility.
          We have seen through football.
          The English have used it; Eric Dier was a CB converted to a CMF and occasionally plays CMF.
          The Germans do same,with Kimmich and Ginter; both have been used in DM,CMF,RB and DF.
          So I don’t think it is used by Rohr alone .
          Like I said,you can only use what’s available to you.and I mean quality.like you said,Nigeria is not Lesotho.
          So we can’t just manage.
          And it is best you stick to a high quality player,that can play split positions,rather than manage a player that’s not up to standard because he just plays a position.

          As if relates to this,Semi Ajayi is a good DM and a capable replacement for Ndidi,even if he doesn’t have his tenacity,show me who does?
          And the captain can always play by Ndidi.
          Ajayi Ogu,can both play as well.
          Or.
          Do somebody have to play by Ndidi?
          Why can’t he just be DM,if we are really going to play an attacking game?.
          It is all about formation and player discipline.
          What’s factual is that we have good quality to have a good set up,it just depends on how the coach chose to set up.
          5.and forgive me,but I think Iwobi’s best position is in the wings,cutting in with someone running ahead or behind him.not through the middle.
          He has had just one good game for the Eagles through the middle,in the friendly against England.but other times he played through there,he goofed.
          Same at Arsenal.
          He has always had his best moments coming in as an impact player or through the wings(mostly on the left side);cause his style of play is on the go,one touch football.i might be wrong,cause he is still Young and definitely have the creative potential to be that,but he needs more hard-work..

          What’s worth,the team is already been listed.we should give them the benefit of the doubt,we can only wait and see,time would tell .all we have right now is our passion and our opinions..

          • Thanks,ur thinking on Iwobi is d Emery way. I support Arsenal u remmbr? You wud be amazed if u see him play tru middle. Som1 has even suggested same for Hazard. We must look deeply at things.

            I wonder if you properly understood my trajectory on the past.How can you say “Yesterday never yells tomorrow”? How? U think Liverpool didn’t learn lessons from last season,dat has helped dem reach d final now? Why do we get uncomfortable when d past is mentioned sef. Not everybody mentions d past,for crucification purposes na. We learn from d past to create a better future. Dats wat I stand for – I gave solutions sir.

            If I say we have better DM’s dan Semi, I mean it- we don’t talk for fun.

            China,Pakistan,US et al are not footballing nations. My post talked of Nigeria as a FOOTBALLING NATION,not just population. Pls re-chek. Meaning we have more talents in dis sport dan dey do. It’s God-given. Only Brazil can really compare to us in natural ability for football. If we had even if it’s a quarter of d organisation from grassroot dat, say Spain has,our football teams wud be unplayable.

          • Mr Hush 5 years ago

            @Oge

            Totally read your post,that’s why the reply.

            Though,never knew why the supporter or fanatic thing would arise at the end of your post;
            But I would say,I am glad you are a supporter and not a fanatic.
            We do need supporters ,so we think logically and with all objectivity.rather than be blinded by emotions..
            It is all good..

            And yes ,thanks for nice incept.
            But still doesn’t change the fact that,Iwobi plays better through the wings.
            Like I said;
            Is he creative?check!
            Is he a good dribbler?check!

            But that does that make him a good number 10..
            That hasn’t been the case..at least yet..

            We will see…

            And this is just my opinion..more as a Super Eagles fan.oh…sorry…Super Eagles supporter…

            All good.

        • Mr Hush 5 years ago

          @Oge

          I never knew you are an Arsenal fan,you never said so,neither am I looking for it,so how I remember?

          And how deep do we have to think about what we see?.

          Wishes doesn’t count in reality..

          Iwobi is been played in the left wing,cause he functions there better than through the middle.
          His coach says this.
          His team mates says the same.
          Yes.he has the potential and creativity to play through the middle but,he is extra good as a winger,as play as confirmed.
          He played woeful when he played through the middle against Seychelles, Egypt..
          If we are going to enjoy him.maybe in a 3-5-2. Where he plays from the wings.
          Like he has done in Arsenal.
          This is reality.not deep thinking..

          And it is ok to learn from the past.it is always advisable to learn from one’s experience.
          But always talking of the past failures isn’t learning anymore.
          It is been stuck there in that loop.
          You learn to look ahead.and not to always look back.
          Besides, knowledge is a continuous process.
          Sometimes,what you are looking for ,haven’t been taught in the past,it is up to you to make it happen today or tomorrow.

          And I do understand your trajectory as it relates to population and football.
          But I believe we are stating the same thing.
          If you have a billion people,and you don’t have the right administration,the right drive,your talent and population counts for nothing.
          Nigerians as a people are energy driven,and we love sports,but like other sports,we haven’t really harnessed our population in the right way,due to administrative,social and economical issues.and that’s affecting our football population.
          Yes.we are a football nation.and yes we could be better..but the truth is that we aren’t there.
          Forget about potential,cause everyone knows potential is like the ocean,it is wild,but you can’t take a drink cause it is too raw.potential is many at the grave yard.
          You can’t do anything with a population filled with potential if it is not harnessed properly..
          Brazil has one of the best football league in the world..infact in the top ten.
          China,the US are harnessing their population growing their football by improving their league.
          Qatar has a small population that never liked football,but things change since they got the right to host the world cup.
          So they tapped into it,worked on their structure , improved their league.now they are Asian champions,in a short time..

          So population, potential,counts to nothing if it is not harnessed rightly….
          Nigeria has not been doing that .

          So tell me this,

          Apart from Azubuike Okechukwu,who is a terrific CMF..
          That’s not on that list.

          Which Nigerian DMF player that is doing well right now, can you call up to back up Ndidi?

          • Well I assumed u read my post well Mr Hush, since you were replying me.I hope dis is a fair assumption?

            Lemme assist u a lil:
            “I hope d coach is not looking at Emery,dats for Arsenal(my club),Iwobi is best tru d middle,so he shud be among d midfielders compulsorily. He is currently d best dribbler in his club,he can do a lot for us tru middle”

            Actually I’m a supporter not a fan; for me a fan is fanatical. Tnks

          • Ur assessment of futbal admin cum our population IS SPOT ON.
            However,dats no excuse. D coach has a large pool to freely choose from.

            You scored d midfield as d least in dis 25-man list and dats quite factual.

            But dats not a true reflection of what Nigeria has,our midfield cud be much much stronger,for a tournament dat is more physical dan d WC.
            I’m even begging d gaffer to see Iwobi as a midfielder,as my lil contribution to strengthening dat unnecessary weak midfield. At least we have quite a lot of options in d attacking wide areas.

            All I ask is for Mr Rohr to be more pro-active,he shud throw dat stubborness away and listen.

    • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

      Hahahahhaa….I didnt want to comment on this news thread, becuase its a reflection of what I have re-iterated time and again…but the moment you mentioned Nwakali (the same nwakali that hasnt returned to his porto B club since after the libya match)….and when your friend also added that Kanu is the one that can help Rohr win AFCON (the same kanu that isnt even coaching in an academy yet), I was forced to comment. Pls permit me to laugh at you…hahahahahaha. That is my comment. Thank you.

  • Bishop 5 years ago

    180 million coaches already drawing up team list. This underlines our passion.

  • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

    Akpeyi,Shehu and injured kalu has no business in this team. I would have loved to see osigwe, musa Muhammed and resurgent Chuba Akpom. Nigeria sha if only we can be honest we for don win World cup like 5 times talkless of nations cup.

    • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

      Oya carry eraser and go and clean their names na…! LMAO. Nor be only akpom, akpofure no follow…???

      • Naija blessed with plethora ofcoaches ur opinion are all cool because we are fans and we are always behind the scene unless if the nff wants to create a forum where fans opinions can be reviewed keenly and positive views conveyed to the coach I think that when our opinions will be worthwhile, let just pray for the success of the team

    • Adisboy 5 years ago

      Akpom?Akpom?. A beg Chima who should Akpom replace in that list? Akpom has only scored 6 goals in the whole season as a striker. Is he to replace Onuachu – 17 goals, Osimhen – 16 goals, or even Ighalo who has 6 goals from just 7 games this season and mind you we are talking about the Greek league. A beg please explain.

      • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

        Injured or out of form Kalu and how many goals does he have compared to Chuba who’s inform check his recent highlight and correct me.

        • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

          Does Chuba akpom play on the wings…No? Can he play as a wing back…No?? Akpom has scored 8 goals in 35 matches as a top striker, Kalu has scored 6 goals and 6 assists in 38 appearance playing as a winger….If we load our attack with 11 no 9s who will play on the wings..? ngwa use ya teeth to count ya tongue.

          • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

            Chuba plays on the left flank nwa wat is your problem? Quit confusing yourself i wish Simon was here hahahaha

          • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

            https://www.transfermarkt.co.uk/chuba-akpom/leistungsdaten/spieler/197642.
            .
            See how devil dey take catch liar.
            Above is the details of Akpom’s appearances this season. He played as a CF all through the season anytime he was on the pitch. His only registered position is CF…nothing else. Akpom as i have followed him from his days as an academy product at hale end has always been a CF.
            I dont know why an adult will come to public forums and be telling lies. White lies that can be found out with just a click of a mouse. I dont know where @ chima watched Akpom ever play as a left winger…or even as a right winger before coming here to compare him with Kalu.
            All just because of hatred. A full grown may with children will be telling white lies…..LMAO.
            @Chima…feel free to call back your attack dog @simon o. I still dey kampe.
            But stop coming here to lie to us. Ur lies are becoming as many as the descendants of Abraham. From telling us you are close pals with top european football commentators….to telling us you are stephen keshi’s brother….now chuba akpom is a left winger….I’m sure the next lie you will tell us is that Teslim ‘thunder’ Balogun was your team mate at Railways XI FC. LMAO

  • Great List no complaints here lets see who drops for me Kele Iheanacho and Samuel Kalu ( lack of match fitness)

  • Adewuyi Olaosenikan 5 years ago

    Why is Joel Obi not in the list. Just because he has gone to Turkey some of his notable fair weather fans have developed boil in their mouths.

    • Joel Chidi 5 years ago

      I can’t findjay Jay okocha and kanu nwankwo in this list, how come? This list is a sham. We must revisit it again. (no be only una sabi yarn okpata) (we die here heheheheheh)

      • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

        Both of you dont know football……Rufai is still looking sharp and fit, he even kept goal in the laliga/star novelty match in uyo last month. Same with celestine babayaro, he was named in the chelsea legends team to play against barca legends this june. Even ifeanyi udeze is still active at brila fm. I watch him live everyday on their facebook page. Why did the coach not call them up. Rufai will comfortably bench all our 3 goalkeepers and babayaro will bench that divison 2 player. Infact, rohr must go…he’s collecting bribes like his brother aigbogun, he should be sacked and let Onigbinde take over. Nonsense

        • Dr. Drey, my man :). Always cracking up. Please oo, where’s BigD? I’ve missed his insightful analyses too.

        • Linkin 5 years ago

          Hehehehehehe

        • Pompei 5 years ago

          Hiki hiki hiki hiki….I laugh in Swahili. Una no go kill person here.
          🙂 🙂 🙂

        • Edoman. 5 years ago

          Dr, l am paralyzed by laughter. l am so happy reading your lively comments. Thank you doc.

    • Joel Obi is not on the list because he has not kicked a football since December when he lasted 15 minutes on the pitch. Before that, the last time he played a full match was in September last year. So, I’m afraid, having not appeared for his club in 5 months and not playing a full match in 8 months means he should not be considered.

      @kel, thanks for the shout. I was away for a bit to recharge the batteries

  • Samson 5 years ago

    My prediction was 100%. Thumbs up

  • Ayphillydegreat 5 years ago

    Fantastic list! Very commendable on the gaffers part to stick to the bunch of his WorldCup team where this team was created. Onazi, Echiejile, Simmy, Obi, Moses, Ebuehi, Idowu out. Although I’m sure some of them are still relevant for future call ups. Incomes Kalu, Osimhen, Onuachu, Chukwueze, Onyekuru, Collins, Ajayi. 

    It’s unfortunate that two players will be dropped from this list. I’m not in the position to determine who and who will be dropped. Whoever makes the final 23 will surely deserve it after a very hard work in camp. I agree that the goalkeeping department is a little suspect, but I really don’t think we have better options than what we have on this list. I also agree that Azubuike Okechukwu should at least be on the standby list. 

    SuperEagles are the undisputed favorites for this AFCON. However, I want to see how they play against Senegal in the final warmup leading to the tournament. Absolutely wonderful development for this young team with big hearts. #FLY LIKE AN EAGLE INTO THE FUTURE# AFCON SPIRIT LOADING…….. 

  • Godwins 5 years ago

    I really beg to take an opposite view to the public opinion especially in the goal keeping department. With Francis, Akpeyi and Ezinwa, AFCON might be far from us. Ensuring continuity shouldn’t mean that quality should be sacrificed.

    These 3 three goal keepers offer little, there is no competition and can’t be trusted give their antecedents.

  • Joseph 5 years ago

    Only 4 midfielders oga Rohr

  • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

    For those of you doubting Kelechi Mark my words today you will see a repeat of the Ahmed Musa scenario because he will sparkle at the Afcon. Anyday anytime i shall never doubt Kelechi. Drey Akpeyi and co is good for you i can understand why so no need for plenty talk silence is the best answer

  • Raphael 5 years ago

    @Footballfanatic ; You are a complete “1st class Mugu/ Mumu” So, this is your first time of hearing Afcon sacastically called African world cup? You should not insult who u do not know else u will go home with a spell of doom.

  • luomo 5 years ago

    Rational coaches will tell you that he is leaving Iheanacho out so he can have time to sort himself,rediscover himself so that he will come out blazing for the new season and that he wont want to put the pressure of national team football on him at the moment..but what do i know

    • I suspect the coach included some players cos of one unique skill or the other that others don’t really have. So, while Kelechi has been generally poor this season, if my memory serves me right, he’s essentially the only one of his SE generation that has scored from a free kick — reminiscent of the days of Okocha, Owobokiri, Keshi and Emenike, of late. Rohr has tried Etebo in that role, but the Stoke City man is not up to scratch in that department.

      So I suspect Kelechi may just steal a place in the final squad based on his set-piece taking skills, plus his natural left foot. Chukwueze is the other natural left-footer, and that makes a strong case for his inclusion too.

      My hunch for the dropped duo is Awaziem and one other person, possibly Moses Simon. He’s not been his old, sharp and skilful self lately since coming back from a long lay off and he seems to have been overshadowed by the new guys.

    • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

      Abi, my broda. What do you know..? You that has not even coached an academy team before…?!

    • Gernot rohr is highly overated but hobestly speaking he is not better than top three Nigeria coaches or even i prefer Nigeria should get the ghanian gafer kwasi appiah to replace him after this turnament. How can you be calling back iheanacho becos of what? He must have settled the crew. Iheanacho is still up coming he has never completed 50 percent playing time in any league in his carear neighter has he scored enough for eagles to now be recall as if its a child play turnament thats rubish decision. Secondly who say those midfielders are good etebo. Ndidi. These guys are not better than azubuike or onazi. Not even mikel is good as these guys. If u guys have been followin eagles for the last 10 years u will agree that it was onazi inclusion in the midfield that gave us 2013 afcon not mikel also in the world cup he was the natural central midfielder italian class as for azubuike u guys will agree that his absence cost us our last olympic even with mikel on the pitch everybody saw enough likage against germany. Our midfield is where the failure starts. Mikel can function good with either onazi. Ogu. Or azubuike. Ndidi and etebo are not good midfielders they verry good players for sure but not good midfielders i saw them in the worldcup and i know they cant give more than that. Etebo is full of making wrong decisions in the middle trying to play wat is not part of him losing the ball so cheaply also ndidi always running ahead of mikel sometimes i wonder if he is the holding 4 or attacking 10. England can be using these guys as midfielders( england are not known to produce good midfielders) i prefer etebo in attack and ndidi in central defend or he should stay deeper to help defenders.

      • I must give you kudos for pointing out something here. Didn’t we see it?
        Ndidi kept running ahead of Mikel in dat WC,such dat we bcame vulnerable to d counter.

        • @ BigD,tnx for d stats.
          First up,Zubby didn’t play regularly as a DM during d time d stat covers. He played MORE OFTEN as a CM,sumtyms as an AM even.Dat however,doesnt tek anything away from d beautiful Zubby,whose name ought to be in dat 25-man list,it only means he shudnt be part of dis ur comparison.

          Let me quote me:

          “What’s the issue with adding a specialist nmba 4 to dis list. Let him compete favourably with Ndidi. The annoying thing is that we have payers who fit d bill.We want to play to win so our best legs must be there. Ndidi needs a veritable deputy,let’s take care of d best nmba4 in England.”

          D stats clearly show dat Obiora and Ndidi are at par.Yet Obiora is one among oda options.
          At a ripe age of 27 ,he is d real deal. Similar style and height to Ndidi,slightly beta dan Ndidi, with d ball(eg see his pass completion rate). As for d Performance rating figure dats a stat dat is always quite subjective.

          Now,here is my major point: just imagine Obiora in d Super Eagles camp,d coach wudnt need to tel Ndidi to work extra hard.D players know quality dan many of us watching. Ndidi can now, be rested when necessary,without fear of losing quality in DM. Dats bcos an able deputy is looking on.Don’t forget an Obiora also has experience far more dan Ndidi in futbal. Ndidi too will learn from him.
          No serious country jokes with d fitness of star players,even Rodgers is now figuring out a way to rest Ndidi wen necessary.

          I close wit anoda of mine:
          “We have specialist nmba 4’s who can complement Ndidi. Is dis point not simple enough? No need to manage,we have d players,dis is Nigeria not Lesotho(wit all due respect to dis country),SO LET’S ACT LIKE A BIG FOOTBALLING NATION WE ARE.”

  • thanks @Ayphilly good one bro….. All d 24 team has Equal chances of winning d tournament as u blive Super Eagle are favourite, so d minor blive also. U Never can tell, History can b Re-write.

  • Off Rohr go straight to the point by picking up his 3-goalkeeper and d midfielders wig, he live are d best to execute d assignment ahead.

    two guys need to be drop not dat, they are not good enough to be at the tournament. A bracket of 3-players from 2-departmnt (forward and defence).

    Who are dis fallen guys……? A positive minded person sud pls, brings on their statistics and % score to justify this.

    @ Oga Deo, Mr Hush and Drey.

    • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

      For me, our AFCON team has been settled long ago. This is only a time for consolidation. Definitely no goalkeeper will be dropped and Uzoho will still man the posts for us. Glad he returned to Anorthosis 1st team last weekend. In defence, Awaziem might just be sacrificed. He should develop more with the U23s before stamping his foot in the main team. The midfield is settled and in attack, Kelechi Iheanacho is currently looking to be the one to be sacrificed, based on his current for…though form is temporary, class is permanent.
      Kelechi iheanacho can be a damn good player when he is focused and committed to his game. This his coach at LCFC knows and hence his recent vote of confidence on Kelly (as he fondly calls him). He even stated categorically that Kelly is in his plans for next season. G.Rohr too is quite aware of Kele’s capabilities. At some point in the 1st half of his reign as eagles coach, Nacho was a 1 game 1 goal striker for him. So leaving him out outrightly could ended up damaging, Kelechi’s confidence for good. And for a young striker who has many years to give Nigeria, even beyond when rohr ceases to b eagles’ coach, it is only wise to allow him come to camp and be the architect of his own destiny.
      But my fear is that the form kelechi has lost over 6 months cannot be recalimed in 6 weeks. Any one who has been a sportsman before will agree with me that it can at times take 1 year of continual training to shed 1 second off your travel time of a track or on the pitch. Believe me, that goal he lost against man city, he must have been lossing such type of goals in training since 6 weeks ago. If you haven’t gotten a move right at least 7 times in training, beleive me you can’t get it right on match day…if you do, its a fluke….try it again and you wont get it even in 10 further attempts.
      Otherwise, the team has been cast in stone long before now, judging by the line ups in the friendlies and the qualifiers. Only injuries and spiritual problems can change status quo.

      • “Kyle can b a damn good player wen he is focused and committed to his game “. kele no say, na him last life b dat for Camp, d guy no go sleep ooo. no serious Relegation battle bros.

        “but my fear is dat d form kele has lost over 6month cannot b reclaimed in 6weekks”. in as much still dey meet bench for Club, anything can happen in fact, na serious problem for camp including d coach.

  • *Oga Rohr go straight to the point by picking up his 3-goalkeepers and d midfielders which he blive are d best to execute d assignment ahead *

  • Gernot Rohr you have done well with this list shows you mean business. All the best in selcting the best 23 from this strong provisional 25. KUDOS!!

  • Mister 5 years ago

    my worry to be sincere I don’t think we can win it just bkoz of the keepers they are not good at all to win this kind of tournament you need very good keeper to win afcon unefortunately it’s came at the time we don’t have keeper for sure. go and write it somewhere we will come back at this forum to blame the keeper I don’t trust in any of them simply they are not good enough always mistakes. I would like them to prove me wrong 

  • Oakfield 5 years ago

    A very good and balanced list. The inclusion of iheanacho seems improper but I think the coach still believes in him and believes he can bounce back. Again, it won’t be good for the young lad’s confidence after recently having a bad day in the office. One thing about oyibo coaches is that they hardly give up on players with potential easily. Kele on a very good day is a wonderful player and there is no other way his confidence can be brought back other than giving him a chance again just as was done to ighalo when he fell to his lowest ebb. In all, it’s a good list. I’m really troubled by the goal keeping department. I’d prefer ezenwa to uzoho to man the post. The latter seems to be prone to silly mistakes. We can’t afford to let that happen.

  • Walking 5 years ago

    To be candid, i just dont have any belief in this etobo guy. He is indisposed, whereby he contibutes little or nothing to the squad.. He is not skillfull, he is not a clean maker, he can’t change game, just running around like eleny in arsenal. Well… The coach knows best..

    • The worst of it is that he is the one assigned for our set pieces. I do wonder if no other player who can do it better in the team.
      For those who keep calling kelechi out for drop should also consider the fitness level of others like kalu and ighalo, also not forgetting that there can still be an injury here or there.

      • @Walking and @Goal, wow, I used to think I was the only one that felt so. Etebo was brilliant at U23, but at the Super Eagles level, he always looks pedestrian/average to me. Sometimes, I don’t understand the hype. He even won his team’s player of the season. Maybe they see what I don’t sha.

        As Goal mentioned, it also appears the coach has assigned Etebo the set-piece taking roles, in the absence of Kelechi and Victor Moses. And the dude has been making a mess of it, big opportunities that good players seize to put their team 2-0 up.

        That’s why I also think that despite all his woes for club and country this season, Kelechi will make the final 23 squad. He’s our only real set-piece taker now, plus he’s a left-footer. The other leftie is Chukwueze, which I think will also get him in Rohr’s final team list.

        I remember in those days when Okocha scored beautiful goals from free kicks outside the 18-yard box of the opponents (does anyone remember the glorious curved, floating goal against Algeria in Lagos in 1993?). Remarkably, he repeated the same at his advanced age in the last testimonial. Other SE players I remember who scored great goals from freekick were Owobokiri, Keshi and Emenike (First goal at Afcon 2013 against CIV).

        Which other current SE player has scored from a free kick, aside Kelechi? It’s a pity we don’t have good set-piece takers going to Afcon 2019. And Kelechi does not start (which I suspect will be the case), we’ll very likely be wasting all of our precious freekicks.

        If I were Rohr, the players to be dropped will be Awaziem and Etebo/Simon. In fact, Awaziem and Etebo.

    • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

      yet….he won stoke city’s player of the season award…! Heloooo….???

  • Linkin 5 years ago

    LMAO…Thanks for schooling them

  • I do not understand the inclusion of kelechi Iheanacho in this list. He has not perfomed for both club and country in recent times. The national team is not a rehabilitation center. He is overweight and not fit to be on the plane to Egypt.

  • Mr Hush 5 years ago

    A good list.
    Nothing really surprising here.i guess most Nigerians expected these set of players.
    The coach have stuck to his trusted lieutenants;as well as form.
    But as always,there is going to be some complaints here and there,which is rightly so.
    the elephant in the room; no one is really comfortable with the goalkeeping department,the three chosen don’t really give us that confidence. That said,I understand the coach is trying to stick to those who he already knows,mainly due to time,and the fact that he has been working on these keepers already with his back room,sending his goal keeping trains to their various clubs to help them train and get them in shape; so right now,we got no choice but to support them and see how it goes.the ship has already left the docks..

    Some are not happy about Iheanacho been invited.yes,he hasn’t been that good this season,but he actually played some key games in our qualifier for this Afcon,besides we all know what a good Iheanacho can offer; so it would be unfair to just dump him,at Least let him make the provisional squad,and try to prove himself,that he can be revived. Some players get revived in their national team,Paulinho of Brazil comes to mind,as well as Gary Medel of Chile. 
    So I understand what the coach is trying to do with Kelechi; he is going to play some of friendly games and see if he can make the final 23; we can only wait and see. time would be the judge.

    And Etebo,I see he is getting some hate as well; understandably so. But remember,he did good for stoke city this season. Yes, he isn’t the best of set piece taker,but I think that can be solved,it is the coach prerogative to make that happen. Mikel is back; we got a natural left footer in Chukwueze,who can float some in and don’t forget,Iheanacho is as well a good free kick taker,at least short. So there’s room to make amends on that.
    And for me,yes,he isn’t the best ,but Etebo is dogged,and could come in handy . Yes ,he won’t be a starter;(now Mikel is back), but we do need him some how. We need a good bench ..

    All in all;it is a good list, I don’t think it can do any better,so now let’s work and hope.
    It can only get better.

  • Scruff of the neck:

    In 2000 Afcon, Super Eagles were minutes from crashing out in the quarter finals to an underrated Senegal side (who would go on to sensationally reach the quarter-finals of the world cup only 2 years later).

    With the cold hands of elimination stretching closer, up stepped Sunday Oliseh and Julius Aghaowa to bring the match level and score in extra time to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat as we lived on to overrun South Africa (quite literally with Babangida’s pace) and lose to Cameroon in the final under controversial circumstances.

    Back to the quarter-final: Oliseh and Aghaowa proved that when things get tough, they can grab the game by the scruff of the neck in working their magic to change the tide of the game in the Super Eagles favour.

    The list released by Rohr threw up no major surprises as he has kept faith by and large with his ever present foot-soldiers.

    However, which of these players are game changers? Which ones can almost singlehandedly dictate the outcome of games? Which ones can grab the soul of a match, own it and influence its direction?

     

    These are the five players I think can (or cannot) change tides:

    1) Iheanacho: If in form (physically as well as mentally) he can deliver killer passes or take free-kicks that can turn tides.

    2) Musa: He hits form at some exciting times in tournaments but not a game changer in my view.

    3) Iwobi: A game changer for sure; his goal against Zambia that sealed world cup qualification was remarkable.

    4) Mikel Obi: he inspires confidence but not one to look to, to change tides (IMHO).

    5) Semi Ajayi: When in need of a crucial goal, his aerial prowess could be key to unlocking defenses when the Super Eagles are clutching on straws.

  • I think the rookie who can change games for us will be Chukweze.

    • @CJ you are correct very correct bro. Leave @deo alone he likes mediocre players and, won’t be happy until Ogenyi Onazi, Michael Babatunde and Mikel Agu are selected again.. Not only is Samuel Chukwueze a Game Changer I am also excited be in him we now have a Free Kick Specialist something w havent had since Jay Jay Okocha. Also another Game Changer is Henry Onyekuru also, Victor Osimhen has an X factor about him. we really have a very very good squad here Gernot Rohr has selected wisely also our defence and Midfield is solid I have good confidence in this squad and for the first time in a long while, I am excited going into a big tournament. Kudos Oga Rohr. Now let us see how you utilize these bunch of exciting talents

      • The correct wording I am looking for is “Optimistic” going into a big tournament. And, believe me guys our “Free Kicks” should be left to Samuel Chukwueze the boy can Bend a ball like nothing I have seen since Okocha.

      • Aww Ugo, that’s not fair! To refer to players who have played at a reasonable high level as mediocre is showing how mediocre you can be with your analysis….

  • Gritty 5 years ago

    @Deo,CJ, If you read my comments above, I highlighted some crucial points that could win matches for us at the AFCON.
    Talking about a game changer, another star in the list is
    Paul Onuachu. He can be brought-in in crucial moments to create dangerous free kicks and commit defenders for penalty. That is why I advised Mr G.Rhor to train free kick specialist(s), like Iheanacho, in every 11 on the pitch. Must not necessarily be Iheanacho, but he should train the team on that and pick out the most accurate and reliable free kick (& penalty) specialists in his team.
    This is not about seniority or years of playing football but rather a player’s capability, skill, accuracy and intelligence.
    Shalom!

    • Our Free Kick Specialist in this Squad is Samuel Chukwueze. HE Is the free kick link we have been Missing nobody else should be given that opportunity.

  • Samuel Chukwueze is the Free Kick Specialist in the Nigerian Squad presently, a kind of the like we haven’t had since the days of the Legend himself Augustine Jay Jay Okocha.

    • Walking 5 years ago

      Have you seen him scored one before?

      • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

        Hahaha thats right good question. Village man ranting Chukweze everywhere like we dont know or like him. Instead of contributing reasonable piece he’s here shouting Chukweze.

      • You will See for yourself I will not talk too much all I will wait is too see a lot of people claiming to always know he was a free kick Specialist when he shows you his ability in that regard. also another Free kick specialist would have been Kelechi Nwakali that is the prime but even I cannot vouch for him due to the season he has had. But Kelechi Nwakali is pure class and will surely be back in the fold.

        • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

          Ok i agree with you on Kelechi Nwakali as a pure class player and i wish him better days ahead presently hes the heir to captain Mikel and he must move to a club in a decent league where he is promised playing time as a creative midfielder.

    • You chat nothing but breeze. Is Chukwueze paying you?
      You no even sabi anything.

  • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

    And where did you see in my quote that included Ola aina? My dear stop this badwagon way of self manipulation. It is devilish so check whos making evil and whos trying to polish dirty to seem white by adding Ola aina to shehu to better the data. Crazy dude always full of drama and calamity in the end. Once again note whatever youre writing today because the day of reckoning is just close by.

    • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

      You think everyone is half as dumb as you…? When you are clamouring for the invitation of Musa Mohd, who are you indirectly tell us he should replace….Francis Uzoho…? or Odion Ighalo…??? LMAO. When we have at least 8 strikers scoring above 10 goals in this season alone….you are here clamouring for an 8 goal striker……dont you think you need deliverance…???
      Of course i am noting all i am writing…just as i also note all the lies you tell us on this forum. Lets wait for who will laugh last when your so-called day of reckoning eventually arrives. Lolz

  • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

    Since some vital players have been left out. If i was to pick a team starting eleven according to the strength of the choosens. Heres the pick 3-5-2
    Gk- Ezenwa
    Df- Ekong, Emeruo, Balogun
    MF/WB- Chukweze or Ola,Ndidi,Mikel,Etebo or Ogu,Iwobi/Ola
    ST- ONUACHU,and either of Kelechi/Ighalo/Oshimeh.

    Impact subs are Ola/Chukweze, Henry, Ogu, Semi Ajayi.

    Note that Ighalo is either Ighalo starts or doesn’t come in at all because he is not good coming from the bench. I will favor Chukweze and Henry to come in from bench as match changers to kill of opponents or add to an already winning scoreline. Onuachu is a 90min for me i dont know about Rohr these are just a piece of the winning 3-5-2 formation.

    • Chima E Samuels 5 years ago

      How to accommodate Musa on a 3-5-2 Will be dependent on his match form but i like Musa.

      • Walking 5 years ago

        You see this our team ehn will give Rohr serious headache.. The team is filled with options to choose from..

        I’m still taking my time to bring out formations and starting line ups in respect to opponents, change of game plan..
        Its bothering…
        Ugh…

  • Rohr is too loyal to his players.

    If it were me, I would not consider Iheanacho nor Uzoho for this squad. They have not done enough this season to warrant a place in AFCON. I would also be suspicious of including Sam Kalu as he has not had a great two months.

    There are alternatives.

    On the wings the duo of Anthony Nwakaeme (Trabzonspor) and Chidera Ejuke (Valerenga) have been overlooked and have both been making waves in their respective leagues. As has Dennis Emmanuel Bonaventure in Belgium. Any two of these three can take both Iheanacho and Kalu’s place.

    As for the goal keeper, I’d place Afelokhai in the squad and have another one of Abiodun Akande (Rivers united) or Olufemi Kayode in reserve. Or even the under 20 goalkeeper Oludare Oladetan. Why not as two others from that squad are standby.

    With the midfield, both Shehu Abdullahi and Semi Ajayi have played midfield for their clubs with devastating results for their opponents and Awaziem is comfortable in the DM role.

    The under 23 captain Azubuike Okechukwu is also an able deputy for Ndidi in the long term.

    • BigD, thank you so much for your contribution above. When I call for more variety in team selection, I am accused of peddling names of mediocre players.

      Yes, Rohr’s boys have done really well to get us to where we are however a bit of variety here and there will not hurt anyone.

      I have to say, this is one of the most predictable lists I have seen in a long, long time.

      That statement wasn’t meant to be a criticism, it is just a statement of fact.

      As a positive, you can argue that Rohr is promoting continuity.

      That man likes attitude. Even if your form is dwindling or you are not getting game-time at your club (like Balogun, Iheanacho, Akpeyi, Uzoho and Kalu) so long as you have a good attitude, Rohr will remain loyal.

      He stuck with Ighalo until the China-based goals machine started producing the goods in national team colours.

      That is good and I expect this strategy to pay off in Egypt.

      However, like you touched on, being too loyal does rob us fans of the opportunity to see what some other players can do (like the ones you mentioned in your piece).

  • mutum 5 years ago

    kelechi and uzohu, based on current form has no biz in the 25man list not to talk of making the final cut. iwobi is not a footballer, what a joke,he is playing for arsenal. no wonder like arsenal like iwobi. ashana player. Samuel Kali,even if he has only one leg,he must go to afcon.rohr and Kali has this wicked connection. rohr singlehandedly made him sign for Bordeaux. the kind love that exist between d two hmmm hmmm. azuibike deserves a look na..better than ajayi,etebo even Mikel. I rest ma case!

    • greenturf 5 years ago

      My bruh,i’m exhausted shouting out for the inclusion of Zubby.I really don’t know the reason for his omission.This lad has had such a good season and inspired the under 23 to a great come back victory against Libya.
      His abilities are fantastic very industrious and a maestro.The reason for his omission needs explaining.
      To make things worse he’s not even considered good enough to be on the standby list.Shocking!!!

      • Adewuyi Olaosenikan 5 years ago

        Zubby, tufiakwa! Nwankwo Obiora will bench Zubby anyday any time.
        I saw him live in Portugal the other week score for Boavista.
        Trust me my friend, Obiora will bench even Ndidi if Leicester buy him. SMH

        • Tale of the tape:

          Azubuike Okechukwu performance rating 7.08, 85% pass success rate, 1 goal, one assist 12 games 1046 minutes

          Obiora Nwaknwo Performance rating 6.63, 80% pass success rate, 2 goals no assist, 13 games 1045 minutes

          Wilfred Ndidi 7.21 performance rating, 79% pass success rate, 2 gals, no assists, 37 games 3299 minutes on the pitch.

          Apart from the fact that the English premier league is a far far higher level than both the Portuguese and Turkish leagues, Ndidi has been consistent for two seasons. Obiora and Azubuike are in comparable leagues, but the stats from their performances over the season show that Azubuike is ahead of Obiora and will not be benched “anyday any time”, rather once in a while

          • Adewuyi Olaosenikan 5 years ago

            Okay, what about Joel Obi? Is he not better than Ndidi? Put statistics aside, Some of Joel Obi’s former fans (when he was at the scudetto) will say that Obi is better than Ndidi.

          • “Put statistics aside” and make judgment on what? Emotion? Joel Obi has not kicked a football since December when he lasted 15 minutes on the pitch. Before that, the last time he played a full match was in September last year. So, I’m afraid, having not appeared for his club in 5 months and not playing a full match in 8 months means he should not be considered.

            And better than Ndidi is laughable. In two seasons back to back, Ndidi has been the number one tackler in midfield in one of the top two leagues on the planet.

            Over the past two seasons, Ndidi has played in any one season twice as many games and twice as many minutes on the pitch as Obi has played in both seasons. Ndidi has played 40 and 38 games to Obi’s 13 and 22 games. Don’t forget that the EPL is a higher level than Serie A.

            My guy your summation above doesn’t compute with me. Ndidi is a defensive midfielder, whilst obi is a Central midfielder/left of midfield, however, Ndidi is operating at a far more consistent level and greater impact than Joel obi has especially over the last two (maybe even 3) years

          • Dr. Drey 5 years ago

            Big D. Mehn You really get time o. When anyone asks you to put statistics aside in an argument you should know that its not even worth the energy engaging in that argument any more…!. Its gonna be a shouting bout from thence on.

    • Linkin 5 years ago

      Yes…Azubuike is even better than Okocha and Oliseh. You guys just come to play here. Must you comment…Rubbish!

  • Sunnyb 5 years ago

    When I talk of corruption and sentiments killing our football, some people disagrees with me, but folks what’s iheanacho, Uzoho and Akpeyi names doing in this list. But the corrupt Nigerian press would never ask Rohr the criteria he used in inviting some of these lame players.I won’t be surprise  if Rohr eventually drops Simon or oshimeh for iheanacho.Again this Afcon would be very tough all pretenders would be exposed, Rohr should do the right thing by selecting the best legs ooo.

  • beware of the ivorian:Nicholas pepe,jean Michael seri,wilfred zaha,frank kessie.

    • Adewuyi Olaosenikan 5 years ago

      Etebo is better than all the Ivorian players. He won division 2 club player of the seasons.
      Gbam!

  • i disagree with collins id on so many levels. azubuike and onazi are not better than etebo and ndidi by any imagination. ndidi and etebo are more experienced and fitter than them both. onazi was really in form in 2013 but in the last world cup he was clearly not fit enough to start a game. iheanacho may not be inform but he is still more experienced than some of the invited attackers and that should count for something.

  • you guys are overlooking one player that is capable of scoring free-kicks with deadly accuracy and dats moses simon.

  • Chidiebere 5 years ago

    I see this team making up the number. The are not going to impact. As long as kelechi Iheanacho, Odion Ighalo, Ahmed Musa, Daniel Akpenyi and Mikel Obi are there it means no progress.

  • The stone rejected by the builders will soon become the corner stone.

    I feel foe Kelechi Iheanacho, nobody here including myself is happy with him.

    But at this time my spirit is compassionate towards him, and I see the God of heaven showing mercy on him.
    “I am God and there is none other besides me, and I will show mercy on whom I will show mercy”

    Ipray this hour that God will re-write this young man’s story and lift him to mountain higher than him in the name of Jesus. Amen.
    I pray for devine favour upon you KC.

    Yiu will not only go to Egypt, you will be the “Moses” that will lead the SE out of Egypt victoriously.
    You will be like Sunday Mba.
    Your career will take a new upwards turn from Egypt.
    On the account of your exploits in Egypt you will leave Leicester city this Summer.
    I command the Lord’s favour on you.
    In the name of Jesus.

    • Amen to that.
      I believe the young man has too much to offer.
      He is going through a purple patch but with hard work, dedication and prayers of well meaning fans (just like in the case of Zerubbabel) all mountains before him shall turn to level grounds.

      Not by power nor by might but by my spirit says the Lord.

    • Fqtee 5 years ago

      Amen and amen… I love kelechi so much, I add my faith to yours and I believe that our God will show him mercy and restore him to glory.

  • Gritty 5 years ago

    Amen@CJ#Iheanacho

  • @ BigD,tnx for d stats.
    First up,Zubby didn’t play regularly as a DM during d time d stat covers. He played MORE OFTEN as a CM,sumtyms as an AM even.Dat however,doesnt tek anything away from d beautiful Zubby,whose name ought to be in dat 25-man list,it only means he shudnt be part of dis ur comparison.

    Let me quote me:

    “What’s the issue with adding a specialist nmba 4 to dis list. Let him compete favourably with Ndidi. The annoying thing is that we have payers who fit d bill.We want to play to win so our best legs must be there. Ndidi needs a veritable deputy,let’s take care of d best nmba4 in England.”

    D stats clearly show dat Obiora and Ndidi are at par.Yet Obiora is one among oda options.
    At a ripe age of 27 ,he is d real deal. Similar style and height to Ndidi,slightly beta dan Ndidi, with d ball(eg see his pass completion rate). As for d Performance rating figure dats a stat dat is always quite subjective.

    Now,here is my major point: just imagine Obiora in d Super Eagles camp,d coach wudnt need to tel Ndidi to work extra hard.D players know quality dan many of us watching. Ndidi can now, be rested when necessary,without fear of losing quality in DM. Dats bcos an able deputy is looking on.Don’t forget an Obiora also has experience far more dan Ndidi in futbal. Ndidi too will learn from him.
    No serious country jokes with d fitness of star players,even Rodgers is now figuring out a way to rest Ndidi wen necessary.

    I close wit anoda of mine:
    “We have specialist nmba 4’s who can complement Ndidi. Is dis point not simple enough? No need to manage,we have d players,dis is Nigeria not Lesotho(wit all due respect to dis country),SO LET’S ACT LIKE A BIG FOOTBALLING NATION WE ARE.”

    Cheers

  • mutum 5 years ago

    hahahhaaha which obiora again…obioroa name still the board in 2019? some people self! obiora has done his bit and left,if he is that good,he should have been in the eagles mix since then. haba….obiora ko obiora ni. lol…u for add seyi olofinjana

    • Adewuyi Olaosenikan 5 years ago

      My guy, you no sabi football at all.
      If you watch television, you would have seen me last week analysing football like a professor.
      Nwankwo Obiora is the best passer Nigeria has now. He picks out passes better than Ogu, Etebo and Mikel combined (SMA-Shaking my ass)
      Just see the video below and make up your mind.

      https://youtu.be/NYewdsXONYc

      • Adewuyi Olaosenikan 5 years ago

        Well said Oge.
        Obiora’s pass rate is better than Ndidi according to the stats by BigD.
        So, Obiora has the upper hand.

      • Thanks for the video @Adewuyi,just try to be a lil less caustic wit words.

        Now people, the video speaks volumes.

        As an aside,did we just see Brazil’s final list for Copa America dis summer?
        Fernandinho of MCity,Casimiero of Madrid,Alan of Napoli,all in it.
        Somebody is surprised saying,is this not Brazil,who are supposed to be an attacking team like Nigeria? Well,I assure you,they are still a great attacking side,but the coach is being REALISTIC sirs.
        The Copa America is not the Euros,it is a very physical competition , much like d Afcon,so he comes with 3 battlers in midfield.He may need to play two nmba4’s from d 75th minute of some matches to close out d game.
        Also all the above named players have had a really gruelling season, just like Ndidi has,so the coach invites 3 nmba 4’s to keep his players fresh,esp as d tournament is physical.

        O yes,we musn’t copy Brazil ,but wisdom is open to learning from wisdom.
        I wish d Super Eagles well.

  • Wonderful list I must say. We are good to go. I believe the boys will definitely get the job done in Egypt. We just have to be supportive wishing them well. Hopefully they’ll do us proud 🙂

  • https://owngoalnigeria.com/2019/05/17/more-games-than-uzoho-in-europe-yet-snubbed-by-rohr-the-story-of-david-nwolokor/ via @OwnGoal Nigeria.

    Still racking my head trying to fathom why David Nwolokor is yet to get a look-in in the Super Eagles. Please click on the link above and read up

  • opeyemi odejimi 5 years ago

    good job mr rohr,but i think kelechi should be out !

  • good job rohr and for giving iheanacho a second chance to prove him self

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