October Friendlies: Former International Charges Rohr On New Super Eagles Invitees

Six Europe-based stars have received invitations to join the team in Austria, and they could make their debuts for the three-time African champions during the next international break

Ex-Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal has praised coach Gernot Rohr for inviting new players to be a part of the national team.

Ahead of Nigeria’s friendly matches against Tunisia and Ivory Coast in Austria in October, Rohr has sent invitations to 25 stars, six of whom will be joining the team for the first time.

The newly invited players are Slovakia’s SKF Sered goalkeeper, Matthew Yakubu; new Porto full-back, Zaidu Sanusi; FC Midtjylland midfielder, Frank Onyeka; CSKA Moscow forward, Chidera Ejuke; and TSV Hartberg’s midfielder, Tijani Samson.

Regulars such as Everton’s Alex Iwobi, Udinese’s William Troost-Ekong, Leganes’ Kenneth Omeruo, Villarreal’s Samuel Chukwueze, and Nantes’ Moses Simon, among others, make up the bulk the squad expected to feature prominently in the two games.

But former Roda JC defensive midfielder Lawal has called on the Franco-German tactician to ensure that all the newly invited players taste enough action to justify their call-up and showcase what they have to offer.

“I am happy that the coach has invited these young players to come and be tested,” the retired midfield trojan told the Daily Trust.

“Since these are friendly matches, they shouldn’t come and end on the bench. They should be given enough time to show what they can do.

“If they come and sit on the bench, it will be a waste of time and resources.”

The Super Eagles are scheduled to face the Elephants of Ivory Coast on the ninth of October before trading tackles with Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles four days later.