Feelers coming from the camp of the Super Eagles has it that Chelsea defender Ola Aina could be dropped from the squad of the Super Eagles of Nigeria for the World Cup 2018 in Russia.
Owngoalnigeria.com takes a look at the scenario which could lead to coach Gernot Rohr dropping the versatile defender who can play as a left back even though he is a right footed player who primarily plays as a right back.
Emergence Of Brian Idowu, Echiejile’s Experience :
Aina was almost certain to make the squad of the Super Eagles for the World Cup until late last year when Russian-Nigerian defender Brian Idowu pledged his allegiance to Nigeria.
Idowu now appears to be the first choice left back with Elderson Echiejile pushing him for a starting spot leaving Aina as the third choice left back of the Nigerian team. Even though he can play as a right full back Shehu Abdullahi and Tyronne Ebuehi have locked down that spot.
The best bet for the full back who spent last season on loan to make the squad is if coach Rohr decides to select just three central defenders which is possible due to the presence of players who can play in multiple roles, but that in itself will lead to the axing of another central defender with Stephen Eze the only one on the verge of getting axed for now, although reports also indicates that Kenneth Omeruo is not entirely safe as well.
Daniel Akpeyi Vs Dele Ajiboye
The odds presently favours Daniel Akpeyi as Rohr tends to fancy players who contributed to the qualification of the team for the World Cup ahead others but the form of Ajiboye in camp has thrown up a huge debate.
Akpeyi hasn’t done badly but Ajiboye has been very impressive and if not for the fact that Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Francis Uzoho are firmly established as top two goalkeepers he could easily claim one of the spots based on his form.
For now Ajiboye could miss out but the fact that there’s a debate over his possible inclusion with several informed sources claiming he has been included ahead of Akpeyi makes one wonder if he is entirely save.
Osas Mahawi
