It appears that Nigerian coach Stephen Keshi faced criticism for excluding John Obi Mikel and Peter Odemwingie from the list of players called up to face Liberia in September. Keshi provided clarifications, particularly regarding Mikel’s absence, citing concerns about playing on artificial turf due to a back injury.
Key points from Keshi’s explanations include:
- Meetings with Mikel:
- Keshi mentioned having several meetings with Mikel during the month leading up to the announcement of the list.
- Mikel expressed a desire to play for the Super Eagles, which Keshi appreciated.
- However, Mikel communicated that he couldn’t play on an artificial turf due to a back injury, and he didn’t want to risk aggravating it.
- Pitch Conditions:
- Keshi stated that two days after revealing the list, he received a letter from the Liberian football federation.
- The letter clarified that the match against Liberia would be held on a normal pitch, not artificial turf.
- Keshi mentioned that by that time, he couldn’t make changes to the list without frustrating other players.
- Relations with Expatriate Players:
- Keshi denied having problems with expatriate players and emphasized that the press invents such issues.
- He stated that the goal is to build a competitive team that can make the country proud.
- Keshi mentioned having multiple options, and if a summoned player cannot respond, he turns to another.
- Mikel’s Presence for the Second Leg:
- Keshi confirmed that Mikel would be included for the second leg against Liberia in Lagos in October.
- Exclusion of Mikel and Odemwingie:
- The coach revealed that, despite the clarification on pitch conditions, Mikel and West Bromwich Albion striker Peter Odemwingie were not included in the list of players called up to face Liberia in September.
These explanations provide insight into the coach’s decision-making process, emphasizing player safety and the circumstances surrounding the selection for the upcoming match against Liberia.
