Former Super Eagles Forward, John Utaka has expressed concerns about the dedication of current Nigerian players and the significance of representing the national team.

Utaka, 42, had a diverse playing career across Nigeria, Egypt, Qatar, France, England, and Turkey before retiring from football in 2018.

He made 44 appearances for Nigeria between 2001 and 2012, scoring 6 goals.

After retiring, the former striker founded his own football academy before being hired by Montpellier as a youth coach in 2020.

He had played for the club between 2011 and 2013, scoring 12 goals in 68 appearances.

In 2022, Utaka obtained his UEFA A license and is now working towards achieving his UEFA Pro badge.

He has now applied for the National under-20 coaching position advertised by the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF).

Flying Eagles held their final training session before the opening group game against Dominican Republic. Photo | Twitter (thenff)

“I have applied for the under-20 job, and it’s something I would like to do if given the chance,” Utaka said on Brila FM. “I think it would be good because, as a player, I knew what it took to play for the country, which is something the youth need to understand. When you play for Nigeria, you play with your heart.”

Utaka also emphasized the importance of maintaining a high standard and philosophy for the national team.

“There is a philosophy behind our play; we have to represent our flag with the utmost respect, and that’s why we are there.”

Nigeria U20 will face Dominican Republic, Italy and Brazil in the FIFA U20 World Cup group stage.

In Nigeria and possibly other African nations, it has been observed that coaches often face pressure from influential figures, sometimes referred to as ‘godfathers,’ to select certain players for the national team. This pressure often results in choices based on favouritism rather than performance or merit.

The former Enugu Rangers Player addressed the issue stating that while football inherently comes with various pressures whether as a player, coach, or fan, coaches must find ways to manage these pressures.

“The game comes with pressure, but when you get the pressure from all round you have to sit with a committee and key with the people who are making the decision, at the end of the day the coach will have the final say on who he wants to play according to talent and capabilities and not just someone that will not perform.”