“Nigeria does not need an expatriate coach at this critical moment” – Nieketen

Former Nigeria youth international Peter Nieketen has cautioned the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF against appointing a expatriate coach to lead the Super Eagles in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

The Super Eagles are currently under the guidance of ex-international, Augustine Eguavoen since the departure of Finidi George. Nieketen, who played for Nigeria at the U-17 and the U-20 level, believes that appointing a foreign coach at this critical moment spell doom for the three time African champions.

“If the players are giving the local coaches the respect they deserve, I don’t see any reason for a foreign coach,” Nieketen told Brila.net. “Gambling and bringing in someone that doesn’t know how African football is, it is going to be a huge task we will pay heavily for.

“In as much as Eguavoen is in charge now, the only thing he needs is to get a psychologist so they can deliver the World Cup ticket.”

Nigeria sits fifth in their World Cup qualifying group, having secured only 3 points from four matches. With six qualifying matches left to clear, the Super Eagles face a tough hurdle of winning in all upcoming games to enhance their chances of qualification.