Former Nigeria international Eric Ejiofor has thrown his support behind the approach adopted by Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle ahead of the upcoming Unity Cup tournament.
Speaking on Chelle’s decision to invite new and fringe players into the squad, Ejiofor described the strategy as a necessary step toward rebuilding the national team for the future.
“The transition must begin early,” he said.
According to the former international, the Unity Cup provides an ideal environment for the coaching crew to evaluate players who could eventually become regular members of the senior squad.
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“It’s the right time to test new players,” he implied.
Ejiofor pointed out that several established stars within the current Super Eagles setup are gradually advancing in age.
“Some key players are getting older,” he noted.
For him, introducing younger options now will help prevent a sudden decline when senior figures eventually leave the team.
“You cannot wait until everyone retires,” he added.
The former defender praised Chelle for showing courage and foresight in beginning the transition process early.
“I’m happy the process has started,” he stressed.
Ejiofor also believes exposing younger players to the national team environment now will improve competition and strengthen the squad overall.
“It creates healthy competition,” he said.
The Unity Cup is expected to feature a more experimental Super Eagles squad as Nigeria looks toward the future.
For Ejiofor, the message is clear.
Start rebuilding now.
Trust younger players gradually.
And prepare for the next generation before change becomes unavoidable.
Because successful football nations evolve through planned transition—not panic replacement.
