Former Super Eagles midfielder, Garba Lawal has called for patience and trust in Augustine Eguavoen’s player selections for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.

The latest squad list has sparked debate among fans, with some questioning the inclusion of certain players.

However, Lawal believes the focus should be on the team’s performance rather than the selection choices.

Speaking on Brila FM’s No-holds-barred, Lawal said, “It’s not that the players are not good, but if a coach doesn’t favor a particular player, there’s little anyone can do about it.

“In our days, we had players who didn’t score regularly for their clubs, but when they came to the national team, they delivered.”

He added that what truly matters is the team’s performance on the pitch, rather than who gets called up.

“In football, there are always options, but the most important thing is that when you’re called upon, you must give 100% effort.

“We cannot dictate to Eguavoen who to invite; he’s the coach and we give him the benefit of the doubt to execute.”

Lawal also cautioned that the upcoming games against Benin and Rwanda won’t be easy, stressing the need for full commitment from the squad.

“These two matches won’t be easy, and we cannot afford to relax. The players Eguavoen has selected are capable of winning both games. Nigerians want to see the commitment from the players.

“If they give their best, the fans will support them. It’s normal in football — you can’t win every game, but the most important thing is for the team to show their ability and commitment.”

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles camp has officially opened, with several players already reporting ahead of the first clash against Benin on Thursday, November 14th, before facing Rwanda on November 18th.