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These 5 Super Eagle stars are the “Rock of Gibraltar” of Gernot Rohr’s defence; do you agree?
For the first time in many years, the Super Eagles of Nigeria will be having a very strong competition for places and the players would have to work extra in order to get game time, in the defence line.
Infoexpert24 understand thatGernot Rohr, placed a lot importance and emphasis, on having a good defence. It’s one of the reasons why Super Eagles of Nigeria, hardly concede unusual high number of goals since the Franco German coach was appointed.
Yet, with over ten potential players who could walk straight into Super Eagles defence line up. They have been narrowed down to 5, and could provide Gernot Rohr that cutting edge and compactness in the defence.
Interestingly, Joseph Yobo, who was a former defender and player appointed assistant of Gernot Rohr, could provide fresh insight for the Super Eagles to have one of the most compact and solid defences, ever seen with these five players.
Take away the injuries that blighted the meteoric rise of the Dutch born Nigerian player, Tyronne Ebuehi, he would be up there with one of the best right backs in the world.
Quite a lot of Super Eagles faithfuls who have watched him play, will agree with the assertion that Tyronne Ebuehi, is a really good fullback protecting the defence with calculative runs, and attacking opposition defences with quality sprints.
The solidity that Ebuehi, will offer the Super Eagles stems from his ability to read the game well, and putting in timely tackles. If the Super Eagles and his club can ensure, he stays fit, they will reap massive rewards from the ex Benfica player loaned to Twente FC. Ebuehi, takes the right back spot for now.
Leader on the pitch and passionate Super Eagles defender, who is unsurprisingly the vice captain of Gernot Rohr side.Troost-Ekong is another of the foreign legions of players, who have pitched their allegiance to Super Eagles of Nigeria.
William Troost-Ekong, is undoubtedly one of Super Eagles finest and top defender at the moment, who has been consistent for the team.
His ability to command and communicate at the backline are traits that will make assistant coach, Joseph Yobo, proud because he demonstrated similar attributes when he was still active in the game. William Troost-Ekong, should take the first centre-back position for a compact defence.
Kevin Akpoguma
Kevin Akpoguma, has been given the clearance to play for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, after spending much of his time as a youth international for Germany.
The 25 years old Hoffeinhem defender, who is renowned for his aerial duels and tackling, could potentially be the replacement of Leon Balogun in the Super Eagles.
The youth he offers, and experience in the German Bundesliga should sway Gernot Rohr to include the German born player as part of the Super Eagles future defence. Already a mainstay in Hoffeinhem, Kevin Akpoguma has to strut it out with another equally good centre-back, (next player on this list) for a spot in the Super Eagles.
Semi Ajayi
The English born, of Nigerian parentage has grown in leaps and bounds. He has unravelled himself as a vital player that Gernot Rohr cannot do without. He is already gathering quality, and much needed experience at English top flight division with West Brom.
Additional, Semi Ajayi is also comfortable playing as an emergency right back for the team.The main reason why, Semi Ajayi deserves this mention is because of the massive height he will provide, to bully opposition attackers and his calm attributes at the defence.
If he continues to feature regularly for West Brom, Gernot Rohr has no choice than to pick the former Arsenal academy graduate.
Jamilu Collins
Unfortunately, no left back called up to the Super Eagles, at the moment comes close to what Jamilu Collins can offer the defence.
Yes, maybe a certain Ola Aina, but Jamilu Collins has to be the undisputed starter for that role. Regarded as a rough and relentless left-back, who never backs down easily makes it an essential key, for a quality defence.
A solid left flank, being manned by Jamilu Collins is a contributing factor why Gernot Rohr, was able to solve the left back crises he met in the Super Eagles.
The Paderborn FC player, has always shown he wants to make that left back role his own and has continuously demonstrated it, whenever he plays in the green white green shirt.
Do you agree these players should be the core of Super Eagles defence, under Gernot Rohr?, Kindly share your thoughts in the comment section below.