Former Nigeria international Taiwo Oloyede has praised Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle for traveling across the country in search of local talent ahead of the upcoming Unity Cup.
Reacting to the coach’s efforts, Oloyede described the initiative as a positive step toward reconnecting the national team with the domestic league.
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“It’s a good move,” he said.
According to the former defender, scouting players directly from the local scene shows commitment to broadening the talent pool.
“He’s doing the right thing,” he implied.
However, Oloyede warned that inviting home-based players alone is not enough if they are not given genuine opportunities to settle and prove themselves.
“They need patience,” he noted.
He stressed that local players should not be discarded after one poor performance, arguing that development and confidence require time.
“You can’t judge too quickly,” he added.
For Oloyede, proper integration is essential if domestic players are to succeed at international level.
“They deserve support,” he stressed.
He also pointed out that giving local talents meaningful chances could improve competition within the squad and strengthen Nigerian football overall.
“It helps the team grow,” he said.
As preparations continue for the Unity Cup, attention will be on whether new faces from the domestic league are included and trusted.
For Oloyede, the message is clear.
Scout locally.
Be patient.
And allow talent to grow.
Because in football, confidence and continuity are often what turn potential into success.
