Iwobi as Jay-Jay Okocha replacement in the Super Eagles team: Samson Siasia passes judgement

Former Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia has weighed in on the current state of Nigeria’s national football team, highlighting the absence of a creative playmaker.

According to Siasia, despite the abundance of talent, including attackers like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Taiwo Awoniyi, the Super Eagles still lack a player with the vision and playmaking abilities reminiscent of Jay-Jay Okocha.

Speaking on Lagos Talks, Siasia expressed his belief that Alex Iwobi, while a talented player, is not the ideal replacement for Okocha in the creative midfield role. “We don’t have an offensive midfield player that can give the last pass to the strikers,” Siasia said.

He added that Iwobi, despite his capabilities, has not been able to fill the critical role of a playmaker who can deliver decisive passes and score goals.

“Iwobi can not play that position. He’s a good player, but he’s not doing as much as he’s supposed to as an offensive player, ” Siasia added.

Siasia pointed out that Nigeria’s defence and other midfield positions are solid, but the team is still searching for a player who can both create and score, much like Okocha did during his career.

He stressed that this missing element is key for the Super Eagles to dominate and win games more convincingly.