Head coach of Super Eagles, Eric Chelle has defended his decision to include Ademola Lookman in his squad to face Rwanda and South Africa in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Recall that Lookman made Chelle’s final 23-man squad for the qualifiers despite the Atalanta forward’s lack of competitive football in recent weeks.
The 27-year-old has not played for club or country since May 25 this year when he featured in Atalanta’s 3-2 defeat against Parma on the final day of the Serie A 2024/25 season.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year went on strike as he tried to force a move away from Atalanta during the summer transfer window but failed to secure a deal.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Chelle said he trust Lookman.
“About Lookman, I just want to say something. Can we do a list without the best player in Africa?” Chelle told reporters.
“It’s my job to decide if he can play – maybe five minutes, ten minutes, fifteen minutes, fifty minutes, sixty minutes.
“I can’t imagine making a list without this guy. I trust him, I am so confident about him.
“Tomorrow, after this training session, I will have a lot of choices to make, which is my responsibility and job.”
