Osaze Odemwingie Urges NFF: Stop Begging Players to Join Super Eagles
Former Nigerian international, Osaze Odemwingie, has called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to end its practice of persuading foreign-born players of Nigerian descent to represent the Super Eagles.
Speaking in an interview with Brila FM, the ex-West Bromwich Albion forward emphasized that Nigeria’s national team is prestigious enough to attract talent without solicitation.
‘These days, it’s like they want pampering. Me, as you know, I don’t need pampering. If Naija pampers me, it’s more than enough,’ Odemwingie said.
The NFF has recently made efforts to convince players such as Michael Kayode, Tosin Adarabioyo, Caleb Okoli, and Kingsley Ehizibue to commit to Nigeria. But Odemwingie believes the Super Eagles should rely on their heritage and reputation rather than chasing players.
He reflected on his own career, noting that once a player wears a national team shirt, loyalty should follow.
‘I love Russia, but my connection is with Nigeria when it comes to football. Imagine one day the whole England squad being Nigerians. Our talents are serving other countries when they could bring the World Cup home,’ he said.
Odemwingie concluded by stressing that Nigeria must blend its natural flair and physicality with the tactical discipline often instilled in European footballers from childhood.
