Super Eagles assistant coach, Daniel Ogunmodede has shed light on why interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen included certain players in the squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

The release of the squad list sparked surprise among fans, particularly with the inclusion of Real Sociedad forward Sadiq Umar, who has struggled for game time this season, recording no goals and just one assist.

Many questioned why Sadiq was chosen over in-form strikers like Rangers’ Cyriel Dessers and Genk’s Tolu Arokodare.

Antwerp’s Christopher Scott and Genk’s Tolu Arokodare. (Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

Ogunmodede addressed the decision, explaining the rationale behind inviting Sadiq, who has not been with the Super Eagles squad since February when he left the AFCON camp due to injury.

“We believe each player is capable and qualified to represent Nigeria,” said Ogunmodede

“Most are familiar faces, though Gabriel Osho is a new addition due to Semi Ajayi’s recent surgery.”

“(Umar)Sadiq has been in the team for a while. He was also out due to injury.

“Now he’s back, and maybe Collins because the head coach felt we needed the left-footed centre-back, and presently, in the league, we have a Collins who has, to a reasonable extent, proved his worth.”

The Super Eagles will face Benin on November 14 at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, before returning home to play Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on November 18.