Battle Of The Gloves Hots Up

Going by the secret rating officials have been giving to players here at the national team’s camp, two players have so far stood and shockingly one of them has not trained even for once with the team.

Kaduna United’s Papa Idris joined the team only on Monday night and was drafted to play the trial game the following morning. Starring in the central defence role, Papa, was a delight to watch as his calmness, swift play and initiating attack from the defence was hailed by all who watched him.

Keshi said he was shocked too at the rate of communication on the pitch of the player as he was calling each player by name when he wanted the ball. Keshi therefore asked him whether he knew all the players before the game, to which he answered in the affirmative.

Another excellent player so far, is Azubuike Egwueke, the lanky central defender, who has been a constant top player during training sessions and in trial games.

His commanding presence, ability to read the game, marshal his teammates and above never under pressure is akin to the playing days of Gentle Giant Uche Okechukwu.

These are not the only two players ho have so far impressed as Bathlomew Ibenegbu, has been good in the midfield, Corps member Stephen Morah, has also shown that his small frame bellies his dazzling runs down the left side of the attack. In general, the team seem to be taking shape gradually.

Meanwhile, the goalkeeping department seem to be the most competitive as the coaching crew is finding it difficult to decamp any of the four goalkeepers in camp.

The goalkeepers are Warri Wolves Chigozie Agbim, Okemute Odah of league champions; Dolphins, Enyimba’s first choice Godwin Paul and Sunshine Stars Moses Ocheje.

So far, it has been battle royale among the four, for the man who will stand between the stakes and the other who will deputise. It sure will be a tough task, but goalkeepers’ trainer, Ike Shorunmu, will give answers to the puzzle in the coming days.