Former Flying Eagle Advises NFF on New Eagles Coach

Former Nigerian midfielder Paul Okoku suggests that the next Super Eagles head coach should possess a solid track record in nurturing young talents and implementing an aggressive, attacking style of play.

This opinion was shared during a phone interview with our correspondent, amidst a range of viewpoints from various Nigerian football stakeholders regarding the selection of the next manager for the three-time African champions.

Okoku, who served as the assistant captain for the U-20 team during the 1983 U-20 World Cup in Mexico, emphasized the importance of finding a coach capable of developing young players and instilling an energetic playing style.

Additionally, he stressed the significance of fostering a positive team culture and effectively managing player relationships.

He further highlighted the need for a coach who demonstrates humility, dignity, and respect towards players, understanding that respect is a two-way traffic.

Okoku emphasized the importance of accountability, suggesting that the chosen coach should be responsible both to themselves and to the nation. He also advocated for the recruitment of talent from local players and fostering healthy competition between domestic and professional players.

Okoku suggested that an indigenous coach, such as the late Stephen Keshi, could be a suitable candidate for the role.

Keshi, known for his no-nonsense approach and ability to command respect from players, believed in the potential of homegrown talent to form a strong squad.

Okoku emphasized the importance of honesty and trustworthiness in the selected coach, urging against favoritism and advocating for merit-based selection.