The appointment of George Finidi on Monday as the substantive coach of the Super Eagles brought to an end the many months of waiting, drama, intrigue, lobbying, high-powered power play amongst others.
Since February when the former coach, Jose Peseiro vacated the post after Ieading the team to finish second at the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Cote d’Ivoire following the expiration of his contract, which was not renewed by both parties (NFF and the coach), Nigeria has been without a coach, as Finidi was only there on interim basis.
The former Ajax Amsterdam of Holland winger, handled the team in two friendly games in that capacity against Ghana and Mali, winning 2-1 against Ghana but beaten 2-0 by the Eagles of Mali.
A Iot were said about the coach’s man- management skills as some key players of the team voiced out their displeasure over his handling of the team. But all those are history, what Finidi needs now is total support from all stakeholders, albeit the government, Sports ministry, NFF, Players Unions, fans and indeed everybody to succeed. Particularly with few weeks to the crucial world cup qualifying double -header fixture against South and Benin Republic.
Those who are aggrieved that Finidi emerged as coach must sheathe their swords and allow national interest to override their personal, selfish or parochial interest, for the good of the game and if they truly love Nigerian football. They must not be seen or perceived as cogs in the wheel of progress.
The Eagles can not afford to miss another world cup competition after failing to qualify for the last tournament held in Qatar in 2022. This will not speak well of the largest black nation in the world, renowned for her abundant talents in football. A country that has made it to every world cup since her debut in 1994 in USA except in 2006 in Germany and 2022 edition in Qatar.
Finidi on his part must get to work immediately. He muat roll up his sleeves and be ready to deliver because to whom much is given much is also expected.
He must bring back competition and competitiveness in every department of the team, just like was the case in the 1994 squad adjudge to be Nigeria’s best team ever.
Finidi must also realise that good scouting and having an eagle eyes for quality players who can fit into his team and playing style is very important to his success.
Therefore, he must set up a strong scouting team to help him scout good players home and abroad.
The NFF on their part must hurry up with handing him a contract sealed and signed. They must create the enabling environment for him to succeed. They must not interfere with his job in whatever guise. They must allow him free hand to invite and make his team selections.
Finito, you know the magnitude of the job at hand, go and succeed.
