Salisu Yusuf Expalins Why NPFL Players Were Snubbed In Super Eagles Call-Up

Salisu Yusuf Expalins Why NPFL players Were Snubbed In Super Eagles Call-Up

Super Eagles assistant coach Salisu Yusuf has given reasons why only a player and no outfield players from the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) were called up for the the two international friendly matches against Senegal and Burkina Faso later this month in London.

Salisu Yusuf

FC Ifeanyi Ubah goalkeeper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa is the only local-based player invited by coach Gernot Rohr and this has met lots of criticisms from lovers of the NPFL.

But Yusuf explained that the Franco-German is trying to test other players plying their trade in Europe, hence the call-up of new invitees like Noah Joel Bazee and Holland-based defender Tyronne Ebuehi and Victor Osimhen of Wolfsburg.

“The league has improved and there are more talents now and we are shortlisting players for the main team,” Yusuf revealed in an interview posted on the Soundcloud page of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

“In future games some players from the local league will have a chance. But for the games in London we want to try new players in Europe and see how they can blend with the established ones and also see how they fit into our philosophy ahead of the crucial games later in the year.”

On his preparation for the African Nations Championship in Kenya next year, Yusuf added that he has scouted some players who will be invited to the team.

“So far I have seen quality wingers in the legue and some good defensive midfielders who I think could break into the main team,” Yusuf added.

“Sikiru Olatunbosun was part of the team that travelled to Spain with us on the La Liga Santander tour and he has improved.”