Nigeria: Siasia Turns Down Oduamadi, Releases Obiora to U-23

Daily Independent (Lagos)

Tony Ezimakor

15 March 2011

Abuja — Super Eagles Head Coach Samson Siasia has debunked reports that he has agreed to release the duo of AC Milan’s Nnamdi Oduamadi and Obiora Nwankwo to the national U-23 Olympic stressing that discussion with Coach of the Olympic team Austin Eguaveon did not include the release of Oduamadi who he maintained has a lot to contribute to the senior national team.

While accepting the late release of Obiora from his 24-man list was in line with agreement reached Eguaveon, Siasia cautioned as unwholesome moves to pitch him against the U-23 handler and former national team mate. he noted that both coaches have very important games at hand and can only work cooperatively in the interest of the country.

While insisting that he has no problems with his former colleague Siasia said that he never discussed with anybody regarding the AC Milan forward who may be having his first cap for the eagles if selected in March 27th game against Ethiopia.

According to him the understanding to release Obiora was as a result of firm assurance given by Mikel Obi who plays in the same defensive midfield position as the fair complexioned Inter Milan star.

“I discussed with Augustine and the discussion was fruitful because it was agreed that Obiora should join the U-23 team. We did not discuss Nnamdi and so I couldn’t have released him. The player has a lot to offer the senior team. In fact I had to release Obiora after the assurance I got from Mikel”, stated Siasia.

He disclosed that the Nigeria Football Association has finally made available the tape of Super Eagles opponents and promised to do a good job of it.

It is also plans of Siasia for one of the Super eagles crew member monitor group B opponent in Antananarivo as Madagascar clash with group leaders same weekend. Siasia said his proposal has met the approval of the technical committee but failed to disclose which of the assistant coaches that will handle the task.

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