Why I picked inactive players for Super Eagles – Peseiro

Super Eagles handler Jose Peseiro has defended his selection of players who were not regular for their clubs for Nigeria’s AFCON qualifier against Guinea Bissau.

Coach Jose Peseiro surprised many with the names he invited for Nigeria’s clash against Guinea-Bissau.

The Portuguese decided to go with familiar players despite their lack of playing times for their clubs snubbing some players are currently in form.

Joe Aribo, Ahmed Musa, Paul Onuachu, Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka are some of the players who have been fringe players for their clubs but got invitations.

Ahmed Musa has played only four minutes in two months for Sivasspor, Frank Onyeka has only played 62 minutes in three months, and Paul Onuachu has been fringe for Southampton, Joe Aribo is no longer in Southamptops first team.

Despite their lack of action, they were picked over players who are more deserving like Gift Orban who is currently one of the hottest players in Europe.

And coach Peseiro has defended his decision to pick inactive players.

“For me, I prefer to choose the best players,” said Peseiro while responding to questions from the media after their first training session in Abuja on Monday night.

“Though they may not have more playing time but for me, the best player is the best player.

“If they are not given chance to play in their clubs, it’s my obligation and responsibility to call them because I believe in them.

“If I believe in you to deliver for me, there is no problem if I invite such player. If they are injured it’s different.”

Nigeria play against Guinea Bissau at the Moshood Abiola Stadium on Friday at 5:00 pm Nigerian time.

As at the time of this report, 15 Super Eagles are already in the camp.

1. Bright Osayi
2. Ahmed Musa
3. Kevin Akpoguma
4. Joe Aribo
5. Ademola Lookman
6. Alex Iwobi
7. Kingsley Aniagboso
8. Francis Uzoho
9. Wilfred Ndidi
10. Daniel Bameyi
11. Keneth Omeuro
12. Paul Onuachu
13. Moses Simon
14. Frank Onyeka
15. Semi Ajayi