Ex-players back Finidi’s appointment as Eagles coach

Former Super Eagles players have praised the Nigeria Football Federation for appointing George Finidi as the new coach of the men’s senior national team.

On Monday, the NFF board approved the Technical and Development Committee’s suggestion to select Finidi as the team’s replacement for Jose Peseiro, who resigned after leading the squad to second place in the recent 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

However, the NFF did not release Finidi’s contract details or his aides.

Speaking with the press, former Eagles winger and 2000 Africa Cup of Nations silver medalist Tijani Babangida expressed delight at Finidi’s appointment, citing his familiarity with the team as an asset.

Finidi worked as Peseiro’s assistant for 20 months and took leadership of the Eagles in an interim capacity during two friendly matches in Morocco last month.

“Finidi is a solid choice for the Eagles, and I think he needs our support now,” Babangida said.

“Having been within the system for a considerable time, he understands its dynamics, and I believe he will meet the lofty expectations set for him.”

Former Nigeria and Reading defender Sam Sodje also praised the NFF for responding to Nigerians’ calls and hiring an indigenous coach to succeed Peseiro.

“The appointment has been made, and regardless of whether it’s deemed good or bad, we must rally behind Finidi to ensure his success,” Sodje told reporters.

“Having advocated for an indigenous coach, we now have one at the helm, thanks to the NFF. We must offer him unwavering support, especially with the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic in June.”

Former Eagles striker Ayo Makinwa shared similar thoughts, praising Finidi’s selection and highlighting his remarkable record as a player, particularly his important goal that sealed Nigeria’s qualifying for the inaugural FIFA World Cup in the United States.

“Finidi was a standout player in his heyday, and I’m hopeful he’ll translate that prowess into coaching,” Makinwa remarked.

“Although history suggests otherwise, I believe he remains an excellent choice.”

Efe Ambrose, a 2013 AFCON winner and defender for Queen of the South, agreed that his appointment was appropriate, emphasising the necessity of giving him the freedom to work with the players without undue interference.

“He is indeed a suitable choice, and I am optimistic about his capabilities,” Ambrose affirmed.