Former Nigeria international Obafemi Abiodun has said the players who featured for the Super Eagles during the Unity Cup have significantly strengthened competition for places within the national team.
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Reacting to the performances of several new and fringe players during the tournament, Abiodun admitted the squad now looks more competitive ahead of the upcoming friendly matches against Poland and Portugal.
“The competition for places in the team has increased strongly,” Abiodun said.
According to the former Nigerian international, the displays from some of the fresh faces proved they are capable of challenging established stars within the squad.
“The new players are pushing the regular players seriously now,” he implied.
Abiodun stressed that the emergence of quality replacements is a major positive development for the Super Eagles moving forward.
“It’s good for the team to have capable alternatives,” he noted.
The former midfielder added that no player in the national team should now feel guaranteed of a starting place.
“No one can afford to relax anymore,” he added.
Nigeria’s recent Unity Cup triumph introduced several new names into the Super Eagles setup as coach Eric Chelle continues rebuilding the squad.
“The squad depth appears to be improving,” many football observers believe.
The increased competition within the team is also expected to push overall performance standards higher.
“Healthy competition usually brings the best out of players,” supporters continue to say.
For Obafemi Abiodun, the message is clear.
The Unity Cup revealed new talents.
Competition within the squad is becoming intense.
And every player must continue fighting for their place.
Because strong national teams are built when positions are earned through performance and consistency.
