Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has assured Nigerians of a place in the 2018 Fifa World Cup to make up for back-to-back absence in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Rohr, 63, who’s landed a job as a pundit for French TV during the continental fiesta beginning January 14 in Gabon, says the Eagles will edge fierce rivals Cameroon in the double-header slated for later this year to take an unassailable lead in Caf qualifying Group B.
Speaking at a media event organized by the Nigeria Football Federation at the Teslim Balogun Stadium Lagos, the German coach said the Eagles have the edge because “they are a better team.”
On players selection for the Eagles, the former Bordeaux coach assured that Dutch-born defender Tyrone Ebuehi will be available for selection for the team’s next game, a friendly against Senegal in March.
Rohr at a Press Conference in Lagos
He went further to state that while he isn’t favourably disposed to a China move for Eagles skipper Mikel, the decision lies with the Chelsea man.
According to him, “I prefer Obi (Mikel) to stay in Europe. But he’s experienced and intelligent. If he chooses China, we must respect him.”
The Eagles boss made it clear he isn’t entirely sold on the idea of Manchester City starlet Kelechi Iheanacho playing as a striker, but points out it’s not really a problem as the team has ample cover in that department.
“Kelechi no 9 or 10? It’s still a long time,” he went on.
“I can’t say at the moment. We have Ighalo, Ideye, perhaps another. We don’t know today.”
Rohr, who’s overseen a revival in the national side over the past months, declined to comment on rumours he’s owed several months’ salaries, stating “I’m not here to complain. Happy New Year.”
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