Former Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba has challenged Nigerian Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to make bold selection decisions ahead of the November international window, insisting that some established players must be dropped to create room for fresh talent and greater competition.
Ikpeba believes the national team needs a stronger competitive environment, warning that players who are guaranteed places regardless of their performances could undermine the squad’s progress.
Drawing parallels with elite managers like Sir Alex Ferguson and Pep Guardiola, Ikpeba stressed that modern football coaches must be willing to take risks and introduce new faces when a team is underperforming.
He pointedly questioned past struggles, noting that a lack of competition for places creates problems within the squad. According to Ikpeba, dropping players who fail to deliver sends a clear message to the rest of the team that stepping up is mandatory to secure a spot on the pitch.
–ChannelAfrica–
