I live in Nigeria - Ex-Enyimba coach Finidi George unveils plans for NPFL players as Super Eagles boss

Finidi George. (Photo Credit: Imago)

FOOTBALL I live in Nigeria - Ex-Enyimba coach Finidi George unveils plans for NPFL players as Super Eagles boss

I live in Nigeria - Ex-Enyimba coach Finidi George unveils plans for NPFL players as Super Eagles boss

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 15:30 - 23.05.2024

Finidi George has vowed that NPFL players will get their chance with him as Super Eagles coach.

Newly appointed Super Eagles head coach Finidi George has vowed to give homegrown talent from the Nigerian Premier Football League, NPFL, the opportunity to stake their claim for international selection.

There have been long-standing concerns about the lack of representation for NPFL players in the national team setup amid doubts over the quality and standard of the domestic game.

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Finidi on NPFL chance in the Super Eagles

Finidi, who spent three successful years managing NPFL champions Enyimba, however, insists he will be keeping a close eye on the local league during his tenure as he looks to unearth new talents.

"I live in Nigeria, I will go around. I will go there to watch these games and to pick talents," the 53-year-old told the media.

Ex-Enyimba boss Finidi George (right) and assistant, Yemi Olanrewaju (left) during an NPFL match.
Ex-Enyimba boss Finidi George (right) and assistant, Yemi Olanrewaju (left) during an NPFL match. (Photo Credit: Enyimba/X) Ex-Enyimba boss Finidi George (right) and assistant, Yemi Olanrewaju (left) during an NPFL match.

"They will have their time, like other good players we have in Europe. When the time comes for friendly matches, that will be the best time to have these players at home join others, mix them up and see them play, and perform."

Finidi revealed he had already identified potential Super Eagles players during his stint with Enyimba, who he guided to the 2022/23 league title.

New Super Eagles head coach Finidi George was unveiled on on May 13.
New Super Eagles head coach Finidi George was unveiled on on May 13. || X New Super Eagles head coach Finidi George was unveiled on on May 13.

"So, my plan is to really go around to watch games," he stated. "During my time (at Enyimba), I had seen a lot of good talents, and they will have their time to come on board. There is no doubt about that."

The former Ajax and Real Betis winger is well-placed to assess the talent in the NPFL having been immersed in the domestic scene in recent years.

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His commitment to integrating the home-based stars into the Super Eagles setup will be welcomed by many who have bemoaned the side's overreliance on foreign-based players in the past.

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Nigeria NPFL