As Stephen Keshi and the NFF meet in Abuja today in preparation for releasing Nigeria’s preliminary World Cup squad, the coach has insisted that selection decisions rest only with him.
Keshi is expected to name his initial squad on Tuesday, but there have been reports that the NFF was wielding an influence on him.
But the coach disputed that claim in a statement released by his media officer.
“The NFF is our parent body and should be concerned about team composition for the World Cup, because the body is made up of well-meaning Nigerians, but to be honest to Nigerians nobody in the NFF has come to me to say pick player A or B. They respect my job as the Head Coach and I respect them as my employers and there is no clash of interest,” Keshi declared.
“All Nigerians are entitled to suggest whoever they think should be in the team but all of them must also respect the fact that I and my assistants have the final say and we will not fail Nigerians in this onerous duty.”
The statement also quoted NFF President Aminu Maigari agreeing with Keshi.
“The focus as I always say should be on a good outing in Brazil not needless controversy that people generate to make a name on behalf of other innocent Nigerians, especially those of us at the NFF.
“We talk with Keshi every day and he is happy with the support he is getting from us and I have told him that if and when he needs any tool that will make him do well in Brazil, he should not hesitate to tell us and we will provide, so why should people delight in causing controversy.
“I think enough is enough and it’s about time we come together as a nation to focus on the World Cup in Brazil.” (kickoffnigeria)
