NFF Questions Absence Of NPFL Players In AFCON Squad

NFF Questions Absence Of NPFL Players In AFCON Squad

By Niyi Busari 

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Technical Director Austin Eguavoen has expressed disappointment over the absence of Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) players in the Super Eagles squad selected for the recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Speaking to Footy Africa, Eguavoen questioned the decision to exclude home-based players, suggesting that the squad could have accommodated at least a few performers from the domestic league.

“I felt disappointed that we did not include some NPFL players in the AFCON squad,” Eguavoen said. “Some players may not even get a minute of playing time, so why couldn’t we include a few players from the local league? Having at least three or four would have been better.”

He insisted that the quality of players in the domestic league should not be dismissed, warning against drawing conclusions based solely on Nigeria’s performance at the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

“The players are not bad, and just because we didn’t do well at CHAN doesn’t mean we should throw the baby out with the bathwater,” he added. “This is something we need to look into because it sends a strong message when players move directly from the local league into a major tournament like AFCON.”

Eguavoen, however, acknowledged that final squad selection rests with the Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, and that the technical department can only offer guidance.

“There is an issue, but the selection of players is the responsibility of the coach. We can only advise; we cannot force players on him,” he said. “I must say that he has a lot of respect for the players and is looking at how to gradually integrate them. We have discussed this a few times, but the timing has to be right.”

The former Super Eagles captain expressed confidence that NPFL players would eventually be given opportunities, provided they maintain strong performances.

“I believe those boys will get their chance if they continue to perform well. It’s not just about advising him—I think he will do it,” Eguavoen noted.

He also urged Chelle to spend more time in Nigeria, stressing that regular presence in the country would improve talent identification and player monitoring.

“One thing I would like us to push for is for him to stay more in Nigeria. If he stays in the country more often, he will have better opportunities to visit venues and watch players. If he doesn’t, it becomes more difficult,” he said.