Last week, I compiled a list of five players Stephen Keshi should drop after the Nigeria vs Scotland friendly in London. Today is FIFA’s deadline for teams to submit their 23-man squads for the 2014 World Cup. Here are 10 players, who can be certain of their place on that plane to Brazil:
Vincent Enyeama: Let’s be honest. The Lille stopper is the only reliable goalkeeper we have in the Super Eagles squad. Austin Ejide is a decent back up, but every Nigerian fan will be praying for Enyeama’s fitness.
Victor Moses: Moses spent the entire 2013/2014 season on loan at Liverpool. The winger did not get much minutes under his belt, as Brendan Rodgers stuck with SSS – Sturridge-Suarez-Sterling. But there is no way Keshi will leave him out.
Elderson Echiejile: After spending a couple of years as Taye Taiwo’s understudy, the Monaco left-back has grown into his own and has become Keshi’s first-choice in the role. That will continue at the World Cup.
Efe Ambrose: Although the Celtic defender fills in at right-back for the Eagles, he can practically play across the back four. Last week, Keshi mentioned versatility as a criteria for his final selection. Ambrose’s place is therefore a no-brainer.
John Mikel Obi: Obi spent more time on the Chelsea bench this year, thanks to the January arrival of Nemanja Matic, who simply strode into Jose Mourinho’s first team. But make no mistakes, Keshi always builds his midfield around the languid midfielder.
Onazi Ogenyi: Along side Obi, you can expect Ogenyi to start. The Lazio player brings tenacity and aggression to the Eagles’ midfield.
Emmanuel Emenike: Keshi’s favoured man for the lone striker’s role by a country mile. A battering ram in every sense of the word, Emenike’s pace, power and finishing will determine how far the Eagles fly at the World Cup.
Osaze Odemwingie: Thank heavens that Odemwingie has mended fences with Keshi. And I expect him to be included in the final 23. I also expect him to walk straight into the starting 11, completing a deadly trinity with Emenike and Moses upfront.
Kenneth Omeruo: Omeruo was sent out on loan from Chelsea to Middlesbrough last season and the Blues must have been impressed with his year there, because he has been handed a new contract at the club. He will also prove to be one of Keshi’s key men in Brazil.
Godfrey Oboabona: Oboabona’s strong partnership with Omeruo, is one of the reasons why Nigeria emerged as African champions last year. Quite frankly, I expect Keshi to stick with them against Iran, Argentina and Bosnia.
‘Ifreke Inyang tweets via @Ifreke
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