Former Nigeria national football team goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu has urged head coach Eric Chelle to consider recalling Maduka Okoye to the national team ahead of the next international window.
Shorunmu believes the Udinese shot stopper remains one of the best goalkeeping options available to Nigeria and should be given another opportunity to represent the country despite past disagreements.
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The former international, however, criticised Okoye for declining the chance to be part of the squad at the last Africa Cup of Nations after reportedly not receiving assurances that he would be the first-choice goalkeeper.
“It was not the best decision for him to turn down the invitation because he was not guaranteed the number one shirt,” Shorunmu said.
Despite the incident, the former goalkeeper insisted that the national team must always prioritise quality and form when selecting players.
“The coach should forget what happened in the past and focus on what the team needs now,” he explained.
Shorunmu noted that Okoye has continued to show good form at club level and still possesses the qualities required to strengthen Nigeria’s goalkeeping department.
“If you look at the goalkeepers we have at the moment, Okoye is still one of the best options available to the country,” he added.
He also stressed that competition among goalkeepers is healthy for the team and could help improve the overall standard within the squad.
“Healthy competition in the goalkeeping position will only make the team stronger,” he said.
The former Super Eagles shot stopper concluded by encouraging Okoye to remain focused and committed if he is given another opportunity with the national team.
“If he gets the call again, he should grab the opportunity with both hands and prove his worth,” Shorunmu stated.
Nigeria is expected to play friendly matches in the next international window as coach Chelle continues building his squad for future competitions
