Former Super Eagles head coach, Finidi George believes that NPFL players are talented enough to join the national team and should be integrated gradually.

Speaking on Brila Media’s Area Sunset Sports Show, the new Rivers United head coach, reflected on his short stint with the Super Eagles.

He emphasized the need to give local players opportunities.

The former winger highlighted that he gave local players opportunities during his time and would have continued if he remained in charge.

“The local players played, Sodiq came in against Benin Republic in the second half and that was his debut. It’s not bad you have to bring them in gradually,” Finidi explained.

“During my time also I had that opportunity to play 30 minutes and I could do the magic, it is a gradual process and if I was there a bit longer definitely there will be introduction of these players bit by bit so that it will give that confidence to play in the future.”

Finidi has already begun his role at Rivers United, leading his first training session on Monday as the club prepares for the 2024/25 season.