Former Super Eagles midfielder Friday Ekpo has urged national team coach Eric Chelle not to sideline players from the Nigeria Premier Football League in future selections, particularly for the Unity Cup.
Ekpo stressed that home based players remain a vital part of Nigeria’s football development and should continue to be given opportunities to prove themselves on the international stage.
His comments come amid growing concerns that NPFL players are gradually being overlooked in the Super Eagles squad despite earlier involvement in competitions like the Unity Cup.
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Previously, Chelle had included a number of domestic league players in the Unity Cup squad, a move widely praised as a boost for local football development and player confidence.
Ekpo maintained that excluding such players could slow down the growth of the domestic league and reduce motivation among home based talents aspiring to break into the national team.
He added that consistent inclusion would not only strengthen competition within the squad but also help identify hidden talents capable of contributing to Nigeria’s long term success.
The debate over the role of NPFL players has intensified in recent months, with differing views on their readiness to compete at the highest level. While some analysts point to gaps in fitness and tactical adaptation, others argue that exposure and proper development remain key.
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Ekpo’s call reinforces ongoing conversations about balancing foreign based stars with domestic talents as the Super Eagles continue preparations for major international competitions.
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