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Finidi George has called up Kenneth Igboke as a replacement for Victor Osimhen ahead of the FIFA WCQ.
Nigeria's new head coach Finidi George has continued to stamp his mark on the Super Eagles squad, with the inclusion of two exciting young talents, Sodiq Ismail and Kenneth Igboke from the NPFL.
In a surprise move, Finidi has extended call-ups to Remo Stars' assist king Ismail, as well as Rangers International defender Igboke, who is fondly referred to as "Marcelo" in the Nigerian top-flight.
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07:17 - 27.05.2024
Naija Stars Abroad: Maduka Okoye justifies Finidi George's call, forgotten Super Eagles star dims red-hot Ademola Lookman, Osimhen
It was a beautiful weekend for Naija Stars Abroad led by Maduka Okoye, recalled by Finidi George to the Super Eagles, and the in-form Ademola Lookman.
Finidi George’s Igboke move in the Super Eagles
The 53-year-old tactician unveiled his first-ever Super Eagles squad last week, ahead of the crucial FIFA World Cup qualification matches against South Africa and the Benin Republic.
And in a further sign of his intent to blood fresh young talent, Finidi has now handed a maiden call-up to Igboke, who will replace injured Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in the 23-man squad.
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Igboke has impressed with his rampaging runs and goal-scoring exploits from left-back for Rangers this season, scoring two goals, including a rocket against Akwa United, and one assist with nine clean sheets.
The young defender, who has been trending since the NFF confirmed the invitation via a post on social media, will be hoping to seize his opportunity on the international stage.
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Similarly, Remo Stars' Ismail has earned his first senior national team call-up on the back of a standout campaign in the NPFL, where he has already registered 13 assists - the highest in the league.
Finidi's decision to dip into the domestic talent pool and provide opportunities for these young stars underlines his desire to build a vibrant, youthful Super Eagles squad capable of competing at the highest level.
The former Nigeria international winger, who stated his mission to create value in the Eagles, is clearly not afraid to make bold selection decisions as he looks to stamp his authority on the national team setup.
With the inclusion of Ismail and Igboke, Finidi is sending several clear messages, chief of which is his plan to build an attack-minded Super Eagles team that will make Nigerians proud and also reward impressive performances in the NPFL with a chance to shine at the national and international stages.
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These latest call-ups have certainly piqued the interest of Nigerian football fans, who will be eager to see how Finidi's new-look side fares in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers whilst keeping tabs on the next NPFL star to get his chance.
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