The absence of Ashleigh Plumptre from the Super Falcons' squad has left many scratching their heads, Soccernet.ng reports.
Recently hailed for her outstanding performances, clinching the Best Player of the Month and Best League Goal awards in Saudi Women's League, Plumptre's consistent excellence seems overshadowed by her exclusion from the national team for the second consecutive FIFA window.
One can't help but wonder: what transgression has led the Nigerian football hierarchy to overlook such a talented defender? Plumptre's prowess was undeniable in the previous FIFA Women's World Cup held in Australia, where she stood out as one of Nigeria's best defender.
Her memorable display against her birth country, England, during the round of sixteen further solidified her impact and contribution to the team.
Despite her exceptional track record, Plumptre, currently playing for Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, has not seen action with the Falcons since June this year. The decision to sideline a player of her caliber raises eyebrows and prompts a flurry of questions within the football community.
Is there a discord behind the scenes? Are there undisclosed factors at play? The lack of clarity surrounding her omission fuels speculation and curiosity among fans and pundits alike. Nigerian football enthusiasts keenly await an explanation or clarification regarding Plumptre's absence.
Her absence not only raises concerns about the selection process but also stresses the potential loss Nigeria faces without such a talented asset. Plumptre's defensive prowess, consistency, and international experience could undoubtedly bolster the Super Falcons' strength on the field.
As Nigerian football gears up for their doubleheader clash against Cape Verde later this month, the sidelining of a player of Plumptre's caliber risks impacting the team's potential success.
Meanwhile, it's time for the Nigerian football authorities to address this omission and shed light on the situation, providing clarity and closure for fans and players alike.
The last time it was Ashleigh who asked to be excused from the team. She said it herself that her body needed some rest.
If she asked to be excused the last time which she came out to say herself, it’s only natural that she comes out again to let everyone know that she is had enough rest and ready to play for the super falcons again. I think it’s a bit misleading when the writer says here that she’s been omitted again when in fact she actually asked to be left out
maybe they’ve been making passes at her as a precondition for inclusion, to which she said no. you know what happens in females football now.
Imagine Nigeria snubbing OG . Onunobi during Fiba games. The current best defender in the nba. I think the issue is not about talent. Foreign born player are not well received. This is just because they will not bride anybody to be included period.