Former Nigerian international Taiwo Oloyede has urged the Nigeria national football team to focus on inviting goalkeepers who are actively playing for their clubs rather than those currently without regular game time.
Oloyede’s comments come amid growing discussions surrounding the goalkeeping situation in the national team following the uncertainty around Stanley Nwabali, who recently became a free agent after leaving his club.
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There have also been recent developments involving Amas Obasogie, which have further complicated the situation in Nigeria’s goalkeeping department.
According to Oloyede, the national team must prioritize players who are consistently playing competitive football at club level.
“The Super Eagles should focus on goalkeepers who are currently active with their clubs,” he said.
The former international explained that match fitness and regular game experience are critical for goalkeepers, especially at international level where mistakes can be costly.
He believes selecting inactive players could affect the team’s performance, particularly during important fixtures.
“Inactive players should not be considered,” Oloyede insisted.
Oloyede added that the situation should present an opportunity for other goalkeepers who are performing well both in Europe and in the Nigeria Professional Football League.
According to him, expanding the pool of available goalkeepers will strengthen competition within the squad and improve overall quality.
He emphasized that the coaching crew must always base their selections on current form rather than reputation or past performances.
The former defender concluded by encouraging the technical team to explore more options and ensure that whoever gets invited to the national team is fully prepared and in good competitive condition to represent Nigeria.
