Former Super Eagles defender Sam Sodje has expressed concern over the timing of the Nigerian squad’s reported training boycott, just days before their crucial World Cup qualification playoff against Gabon.
Speaking exclusively, Sodje described the players’ decision to abstain from training due to unpaid wages as understandable but highly ill-timed, emphasizing the need to prioritize on-field performance above all else.
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“I can’t say I blame the players completely because they are only asking for what they are owed,” he said. “But the timing couldn’t be worse. With a World Cup playoff around the corner, they must keep their focus on the pitch. These are high-stakes games where every session counts.”
Sodje acknowledged that systemic issues within the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) and longstanding unfulfilled promises might have contributed to the squad’s frustrations. Still, he urged professionalism, noting that players have a responsibility to the country and fans during such critical matches.
“It’s one thing to be owed money, it’s another to let it affect preparation for a match that could define careers,” he explained. “These players are representing Nigeria, and the timing of this protest makes the stakes even higher.”
The former international highlighted the delicate balance between addressing legitimate grievances and ensuring that on-field objectives are not compromised. He also praised the coaching staff, led by Eric Chelle, for managing the team under intense pressure and keeping morale intact amid ongoing disputes.
“The coaches have a huge responsibility to maintain unity and keep players mentally ready,” Sodje said. “It’s a tough situation, but focus and discipline must prevail. At the end of the day, the playoff is about Nigeria, not the disputes.”
Sodje concluded by warning that lapses in concentration or preparation could prove costly against a motivated Gabonese side, stressing that the team must compartmentalize off-field issues and perform at their best when the whistle blows.
