Former Nigerian international Greg Etafia believes the Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle should have extended an invitation to goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali for the Unity Cup.

Recall that Nwabali, 29, who excelled with the Super Eagles as they finished third at the last AFCON in Morocco, has been clubless since departing Chippa United in February by mutual agreement.

Nwabali Should Have Been Part Of Eagles

In a chat with Brila FM, Etafia stated that bringing Nwabali into camp, even as a fourth option, would have been beneficial for his mental state and professional training.

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“Every player wants to play and Nwabali isn’t different from that,” Etafia asserted.

“Unfortunately, things happened to him at Chippa; he is a free agent now. There are lots of clubs looking at him.”

“I think the goalkeeper coach and the head coach should have called up Nwabali to train with the team for the Unity Cup because of what he has done in the past.”

“Even if he is not among the first three goalkeepers, make him the fourth one to come to camp. He knows he isn’t going to play official games with the team, but the training will help him a lot.”

Nwabali Set For Action Next Season

Etafia, who has been assisting Nwabali, also disclosed that the goalkeeper is expected to return to club football by next season.

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“For next season he will play. He is a top goalkeeper and has done so well for the Nigerian national team in the two AFCON tournaments he has played.

“He is the number one goalkeeper, but because he doesn’t have a club, I think the coaches feel they have options and want to give opportunities to others.”