Nigeria: Only Miracle Can Bring Kanu Back to Eagles – Siasia

Daily Independent (Lagos)

10 March 2011

Coach Samson Siasia has stated that only a miraculous break will return former Super Eagles captain Kanu Nwakwo to the national team which is currently going through a surgical operation.

He said the lanky striker has done a lot and perhaps his best for his country but noted that if providence permits it, Kanu may still make a miraculous comeback.

Siasia who was fielding questions from reporters confirmed Joseph Yobo as substantive captain of the team.

The ex-international noted that as part of the rebuilding process now ongoing in the national team that some of the older players may have to stay by the side adding that he would not hesitate to bring in any that he believes still has something to offer the nation.

“I find it difficult talking about Kanu because he is one player that has done a lot for the national team. He has seen it all. We are trying to rebuild and we have a lot of young players that can play the way we want them to play. Only a miracle can bring back Kanu”.

Siasia stressed the importance of winning the crucial tie against Ethiopia as a first step to qualifying for the 2012 African Cup of Nations, and solicited the support of all Nigerians.

“It is very important that we win; we did not start the qualifiers very well but it is important that we finish well. We are looking out for players that will do the job.”

On Yakubu and Sani Kaita, Siasia said the duo must stay out for now until the team returns to winning ways. He reasoned that some sentimental Nigerians will not welcome the idea of their immediate return but added that as soon as the team regains its balance, the players will be given a look in.

“they have to wait until we get a back to winning ways; if we bring them back and something happens, we would be crucified by Nigerians. “We are rebuilding and not all the players will come at the same time. With more friendly matches all players will have opportunity to prove themselves.”

On why he dropped young central defender Michael Odibe, he said that player did not impress during the friendly match against the Leone Stars even as he expressed hope that the player will still have a chance to justify his invitation in the future.

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