The former Everton skipper has been backed to make a success of his time in his new role as the Super Eagles assistant manager.
Former Real Madrid ace Mutiu Adepoju has thrown his support behind the NFF’s decision to appoint Joseph Yobo as Gernot Rohr’s deputy, despite his perceived failings.
The former Marseille defender takes up his newest challenge following the dismissal of former Enugu Rangers coach, Imama Amapakabo.
Sharp reactions have trailed the appointment of Yobo, with some fans expressing concerns about the ex-international’s lack of technical ability.
Also, Nigeria’s Franco-German tactician, Rohr, does not appear pleased with the choice of Yobo, who allegedly has no coaching certificate to back his qualities.
There are also fears that the 39-year-old may not be able to command the respect of his former teammates – Ahmed Musa and Kenneth Omeruo – who are still active in the Super Eagles.
However, another Super Eagles icon, Adepoju, expects Yobo’s charisma and experience to dwarf his other failings.
According to Adepoju, Yobo’s pedigree as captain of the Super Eagles team that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations triumph and Nigeria’s joint most-capped player, makes him a worthy addition to the Super Eagles coaching team.
“Well, there is nothing bad in it. As we all know, Yobo served Nigeria so much and captained the Super Eagles. In this regard, I feel his appointment is justified,” he told Goal.
“I don’t know whether he has a coaching badge or not, but I think he can count on his experience as a player to excel in his new position.”
“I don’t see that (friction with Omeruo and Musa) happening because I’ve seen players manage their former teammates, yet they succeeded.
“He is not new to the team as he will be in the midst of some players who have played with him during his playing days.
“So the advantage here is that with his charisma, he will bring mutual cordiality and he will be accessible by members of Gernot Rohr’s squad.
“By and large, the NFF appointed him for reasons best known to them, so we should all rally round him to excel,” Adepoju concluded.
adepoju is right on point. but when did he (adepoju) play for real madrid, i know he played for satander but for realmadrid he did not at anytime.