Former Nigeria international Abbey George has called for the inclusion of home-based players in the national team based strictly on merit ahead of the upcoming Unity Cup in London
George, who previously played as a defender for Nigeria, emphasized that selection should not be based solely on a player’s league affiliation but on their individual talent and readiness.
“If a home-based player is good enough, give him the opportunity,” George who currently works as a fitness trainer said . “I’m not saying they should be picked just because they play in the local league. But if they’re good enough, include them in the team and let them show what they can do.”
He cited former Super Eagles’ goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama as a prime example, saying Enyeama, who once played for Enyimba, earned his place in the national team by merit and went on to perform admirably.
However, George admitted he hasn’t followed the Nigeria Premier Football League closely in recent times, making it difficult for him to assess the current crop of players. Nevertheless, he insisted that it lies on the coaching crew to scout effectively.
“It’s the responsibility of the coach to find and evaluate players, whether they’re home-based or playing abroad,” he stressed. “If a player from the national league is good enough, they should be given a chance to compete in the tournament.”
