Don't let him lose focus - Eguavoen cautions Nigerians to allow Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle to do his job

Nigeria's Technical Director, Augustine Eguavoen, has called for an end to speculation surrounding Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, urging fans and the media to allow the new manager to concentrate on the critical tasks ahead.

Chelle, who recently signed a two-year contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), is charged with guiding the team through its FIFA World Cup qualification push and a strong challenge at the Africa Cup of Nations.

When questioned about his satisfaction with Chelle's performance so far, Eguavoen offered a firm and direct endorsement.

"In one word, yes. Yes, that's one word, yes. Are you not impressed?" he said.

The former Super Eagles and KAA Gent defender emphasised the need for unified support behind the new coach, warning against distractions that could derail the team's progress.

"I won't go into that. He has the job he's doing right now. Let us focus. Let us not be distracted. Let us not make him uncomfortable. We have something in front of us, the World Cup playoffs and AFCON. Let us focus on that," Eguavoen cautioned

He dismissed suggestions of widespread discontent, adding, "You are just saying Nigerians are saying this and that. I don't think that's true. I don't think anything like that is on the pipeline. Let us let him focus, please."

Nigeria secured its place in the World Cup playoffs following a strong finish to the qualifying group stage, which included a vital victory over Benin in Uyo.

The Super Eagles are now preparing for the high-stakes knockout rounds in November, where they will face Gabon in the semi-final.

A win would advance them to the final and a potential spot in the inter-confederation playoffs as they aim to return to the world stage after missing the 2022 tournament in Qatar.