Former Nigeria attacker Emmanuel Amuneke has urged the team to remain focused in their preparations ahead of the 2018 World Cup in Russia, the News Agency of Nigeria reports. Nigeria are in Group D alongside Argentina, Croatia and Iceland in the competition which kicks off on June 14 and ends on July 15.
Amuneke, who helped the country win the Chile 2015 Under-17 World Cup, believes the Eagles have a hunger for success. He said, “The team have done the country proud so far in their preparations. They should remain focused. The coaching staff should look at their weak points and strengths and improve on them.
“I wish them all the best. Nigerians are expecting a lot from them.I pray that this young generation of players we have now should have the strength to do the country and continent proud.’’ The former Barcelona player said it would be a plus for Nigeria to present young players at the World Cup.
He said, “The good thing is that we have young players, people with a lot of determination. “For some of our players, this will be their first experience at the World Cup. I see a lot of enthusiasm and hunger in them.’’ Amuneke, who represented Nigeria at the USA ’94 and France ’98 World Cups, added, “At the club level, people are going for young players that can fit into their plans. “I am happy with Gernot Rohr for the changes he made in the team. We have a continuity for the future. “But, I must caution that the World Cup is not a child’s game.’’
Amuneke said other teams in Nigeria’s group are good and capable of giving a good account of themselves. He said, “These teams are good with quality players. Argentina, Croatia and Iceland are good. We must know how to manage the game. “We must know how to play when we have the ball and when we do not have the ball.’’
Credit: NAN
