Former Nigeria international Mobi Okparaku has urged Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to remain firm and avoid outside influence when selecting players for this month’s Unity Cup tournament.
Speaking ahead of the squad announcement, Okparaku warned the coach against allowing club officials or player agents manipulate the invitation process.
“Don’t let agents influence you,” he said.
According to the former defender, only the best players from the Nigeria Premier Football League deserve opportunities in the national team setup.
“Selection must be based on merit,” he implied.
Okparaku stressed that the Unity Cup should serve as a genuine opportunity for deserving domestic players rather than a platform influenced by politics or business interests.
“The invitation list must not be tampered with,” he noted.
The former international also praised Chelle’s recent scouting activities across the NPFL, insisting the coach should trust his personal observations.
“He has already watched the players himself,” he added.
For Okparaku, transparency and fairness are critical if the Super Eagles are to build a strong future squad.
“The best players should always play,” he stressed.
Nigeria’s upcoming Unity Cup campaign is expected to feature several fresh faces as Chelle continues rebuilding the national team.
For Okparaku, the message is clear.
Ignore external pressure.
Trust merit.
And reward the players who truly deserve the chance.
Because successful national teams are built on fairness, quality, and honest selection processes.
