Former Super Eagles international Friday Ekpo has urged national team handlers to broaden the player pool by mixing home-based talents with foreign-based professionals, arguing that such a blend would create more competitive options and address issues of match fitness and opportunity among overseas players.
Ekpo said many expatriate players struggle for game time at their clubs, while home-based performers who are excelling domestically often remain overlooked.
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“Many overseas players struggle for game time, while home-based players performing well locally deserve opportunities,” Ekpo said, calling for a more inclusive selection policy that rewards form and readiness rather than geography alone.
He stressed that properly coached local players can be honed into dependable assets for the national team, drawing parallels with past generations when domestic league stars successfully transitioned to international duty.
Ekpo argued that tactical flexibility and squad depth are enhanced when selectors consider a wider talent base.
“A blended squad gives you different profiles: foreign-based players bring experience from high levels, while home-based players bring sharpness from regular domestic action,” he said, suggesting that the combination could improve competition for places and push standards up across the board.
He further recommended investment in coaching, scouting and exposure for local talents so that the transition to international football is smoother.
“With proper coaching and development, local players can be molded into assets for the Super Eagles just like past generations,” Ekpo said, underlining the importance of technical mentorship, psychological support and targeted match experiences.
Ekpo also noted the morale and motivational advantages of rewarding domestic excellence. “When local players see a pathway to the national team, it drives performance in the league and strengthens the football pyramid,” he said, urging national handlers to build bridges with club coaches and state federations to monitor emerging talents.
His comments come at a juncture when national team selection remains a hot topic among fans and pundits. Ekpo’s call for a blended approach is framed as pragmatic and developmental: it seeks to optimise available human resources while promoting fairness and local football growth.
