Coach Jose Peseiro has defended the invitation of Nigerian Captain, Ahmed Musa, for the decisive 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sierra Leone in Monrovia, Liberia.
Musa was a surprise invitee in the 23-man list released by the coach last week for their Sunday’s clash in Monrovia, Liberia
Fans and stakeholders were critical of the Portuguese invitation of the Sivasspor of Turkey player into the team in view of his league showing
Following the backlash, Peseiro whose contract with the Nigeria Football Federation will end in June, however explained why Musa, who will be 31 years in October, was included in the team.
“When building a team, you consider all situations and actions,” Peseiro told the media.
“I believe Musa can play for us, and we need his core experience, leadership, and command. His presence in the squad will create team spirit, organization, and a sense of unity.”
In their previous qualifiers in March, the Eagles were shocked 1-0 in Abuja by Guinea Bissau although they redeemed their image in the return leg with same scoreline, Nigeria are second on Group A log behind the Guineans.
The Super Eagles have come under severe opprobrium following their lackluster performances recently.
With his job on the line come June 30, Jose Peseiro would hope to have a positive outing against Sierra Leone on Sunday.
A draw by the 2013 champions will hand them their ticket to the continental biennial tournament which holds in Cote D’Ivoire in January next year.
