Former Super Eagles midfielder Friday Ekpo has urged the national team handlers to make better use of international friendlies by giving opportunities to new and emerging players.
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Reacting to Nigeria’s recent matches against Iran and Jordan, Ekpo described the fixtures as valuable but stressed that their true benefit lies in how they are utilized.
“Friendlies are for testing,” he said, emphasizing that such games should not simply be routine fixtures, but strategic opportunities to evaluate fresh talent.
According to Ekpo, Nigeria must begin to look beyond its established players and start integrating new options, particularly those playing in Europe, who can bring energy, competition, and new dimensions to the team.
“We need fresh legs,” he implied, pointing out that relying too heavily on older players could limit the team’s progress.
The former international believes that introducing new players during friendlies allows the coaching staff to assess their readiness without the pressure of competitive matches. This, he argued, is crucial for building depth and ensuring that the team is prepared for future challenges.
“Use these games wisely,” he stressed.
Ekpo also highlighted the importance of planning ahead, noting that the next generation of players must be given time to adapt and grow within the national team setup.
For him, waiting until major tournaments to test new players is a risky approach that often leads to inconsistency.
His comments reflect a broader conversation about squad rotation and long-term development within Nigerian football.
As the Super Eagles continue their rebuilding phase, the challenge will be balancing experience with youth, ensuring that the team remains competitive while also preparing for the future.
For fans, the message is clear.
Friendlies are more than just matches.
They are opportunities.
And as Ekpo insists, Nigeria must start using them to build the team of tomorrow.
