Former Super Eagles defender Efetobore Sodje has welcomed the Nigeria Football Federation’s decision to extend Eric Chelle’s contract as head coach of the Super Eagles but believes the Franco-Malian should not also be saddled with managing the country’s U-23 national team.
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The former Crewe Alexandra defender said the contract extension provides Chelle with the stability needed to continue the progress made with the senior national team, but warned that combining both roles could prove counterproductive.
“Eric Chelle deserves the contract extension because it allows him to continue building on the progress he has made with the Super Eagles,” Sodje said.
The former defender, popularly known as “Bandana Man,” argued that the Super Eagles coaching role is already demanding and should remain Chelle’s primary responsibility.
He recommended that the Nigeria Football Federation appoint a dedicated U-23 coach, with Chelle serving in an advisory and supervisory capacity to ensure continuity between both teams.
“The Super Eagles job is a full-time responsibility. Another coach should manage the U-23 team while Chelle provides guidance to ensure a smooth transition of players,” he added.
Sodje maintained that such a structure would reduce the workload on the Super Eagles coach while creating a clearer pathway for young players progressing into the senior national team.
He urged the NFF to adopt a long-term technical structure that promotes efficiency, continuity and sustained success across all national teams.
