Shut up - Victor Ikpeba blasts Super Eagles legends over Eric Chelle's criticism

Former Super Eagles star Victor Ikpeba has urged his former colleagues to rally behind the new coach, Eric Chelle.

He specifically lamented the lack of support from ex-interbationals for previous coaches, particularly during times of player disputes.

Speaking on Brila FM, Ikpeba called for unity and support for Eric Chelle, while also criticising the silence of some former internationals during past controversies.

He said, “Let us rally around the manager and players. If we win the 2 games in March, we are back in contention for the World Cup.

“When Finidi was head coach, how many of these ex-internationals came out to support him and speak for him when there were issues with players.”

“This is not about [the] manager. He is what we have now and we will support him,” he concluded.

Chelle has been tasked with securing Nigeria's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles’ qualifying campaign has had a rocky start, with 1-1 draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, followed by a 2-1 defeat to the Republic of Benin.

Currently, Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin lead the group with seven points each, while Lesotho has five, and Nigeria trail with three.

The Super Eagles will resume their World Cup qualifying campaign in March with an away fixture against Rwanda in Kigali, followed by a home game against Zimbabwe a few days later.