Former Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh, has expressed that home-based coaches should be allowed to manage the senior Nigerian national team instead of foreigners. Speaking on ‘Channels Sports’ on Sunday, the 50-year-old said he is completely opposed to the idea of appointing a foreign coach, insisting that Nigeria has qualified locals who are capable of handling the job.
According to The Port City News, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) appointed Eric Chelle—a French-born former Mali international—as head coach of the Super Eagles in January, following the interim tenure of Augustine Eguavoen. Since taking charge, Chelle has overseen five matches, with the Super Eagles winning three, drawing two, and remaining unbeaten.
Oliseh recalled giving first national team opportunities to Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Kelechi Iheanacho. He noted that he selected them based on their potential and readiness for international football. “When it comes to the defensive midfield position, I was responsible for introducing Wilfred Ndidi to the national team,” he stated. “At the same time, I brought in Alex Iwobi and Kelechi Iheanacho.
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I handed them their initial call-ups because they demonstrated the required talent and ability.” He also voiced his disapproval of the trend where national team captains are benched during matches. “I see this as a deviation from what should be. The problem began when captains were no longer guaranteed a place in the starting line-up.
You simply can’t have your team leader on the bench — it sends the wrong message. Essentially, it means someone else is taking charge of the pitch. The Super Eagles captaincy is a key role in Nigerian football and must be treated as such.” Speaking on the responsibilities tied to the defensive midfield position, Oliseh emphasised that Ndidi possesses the necessary attributes to excel.
However, he stressed the need for discipline and clarity in execution. “To succeed in that role, discipline is essential. You also need to operate with well-defined tactical instructions,” he explained. “That’s why having a knowledgeable coach is crucial.”“For me, the defensive midfield is one of the most critical roles on the field,” Oliseh concluded. “You serve as the protective shield in front of the defence — you’re their umbrella.”
