Former Nigeria international defender Taribo West says Rangers of Scotland midfielder Joe Aribo is yet to come to terms with the demand of playing African football judging by his performance against Benin Republic and Seychelles respectively.
Aribo started his Super Eagles career with a bang with two goals in his first two games in friendly games against Ukraine and Brazil respectively. However he is yet to score in a competitive game for Nigeria after two games.
Speaking on what could have brought a lull in the performance of the 25 year old, West who played for Nigeria from when his made his debut in 1993 till 2002 said it was clear from the games that he is yet to come to terms with African football.
According to West, the terrain in Africa suits Oghenekaro Etebo more as he is more physical and also very quick in moving the ball into the opponent’s half. Something that is very useful in African football.
” I really don’t know how to put it in another way but Aribo is not a bad player but he need time to adjust to African football which is totally different from playing against European or South America team. In Africa there’s little or no time on the ball and that’s where Etebo comes in”, West told Owngoalnigeria.com.
“Etebo is physical, quick at moving the ball from the back and also very much the type that understands and know how to apply himself properly in a game. I think he should take his spot back when he is fully fit”.
Ade Emmanuel
