Interim head coach of the Super Eagles, Augustine Eguavoen, has defended his decision to call up out-of-form striker Kelechi Iheanacho for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Libya, despite the player’s recent goal drought.
Iheanacho, who has not scored for both club and country this year, was included in the squad over in-form Nigerian forwards such as Cyriel Dessers and Tolu Arokodare. Dessers has been Rangers’ top scorer with seven goals this season, while Arokodare has netted six goals for Belgian side Genk.
Explaining his decision, Eguavoen cited Iheanacho’s experience as a key factor. “I decided to include Kelechi Iheanacho of Seville when it became clear Victor Osimhen would not be fit in time,” Eguavoen said, according to *Afrik-Foot*. “I looked at both Cyriel Dessers and Tolu Arokodare, but opted for Kelechi this time because he is the more experienced striker.”
Iheanacho’s inclusion has sparked debate, but Eguavoen remains confident in his choice as the Super Eagles gear up for their crucial AFCON qualifiers.
