Eguavoen reveals his playing style, criteria to make the Super Eagles team

The Super Eagles gaffer just resumed duties at the beginning of December, but he will look to instil his philosophy into his team

Super Eagles boss Augustine Eguavoen has revealed that he wants his team to play entertaining football, and he wants his team to press their opponents for the ball whenever they are not in possession.

The retired Nigeria international took up the managerial post from German tactician Gernot Rohr earlier this month.

Still, despite the shortage of time, as the Africa Cup of nations is just 18 days away, he wants to instil his tactics into his lads as soon as possible.

In an interview with veteran Nigerian journalist Godwin Enakhena, the former Enyimba coach revealed his playing strategy.

“I like entertaining football,” Eguavoen said.

“But you must try at every given time to possess the ball, but with the intention of going forward. When that space is there, we’ll have to explore.”

Whilst Eguavoen may have a template for how his team sets up. It is left to be seen how he will be able to instil his style in his players, considering that some of the integral Super Eagles players may be at their clubs till the end of the year.

Meanwhile, the former Bendel insurance coach also revealed his criteria for selecting his team. Eguavoen expressed his sentiments towards versatile players, as he explained that only players who can easily fit into peculiar positions would make his team.

“Eleven players are playing, so we are not going to leave defensive responsibilities for defenders alone of offensive responsibilities for strikers alone,” Eguavoen said.

It’s a teamwork obviously, and mind you, what I like, you must be able to play more than one position on the field of play.

“So wherever you find yourself, you should be able to do at least something 40-50 per cent.”

The Super Eagles boss would not have to look too far to get what he wants, as some Nigerian stars have proven their ability to switch between positions.

Wilfred Ndidi played as a centre-back in Leicester City 4-0 thrashing of Newcastle. Calvin Bassey has alternated between centre-back and fullback positions for Rangers.

Joe Aribo also plays as an unorthodox winger for Rangers occasionally.

However, the question of time would continue to linger, as the AFCON is just eighteen days away, and the Super Eagles camp is yet to open.