Super Eagles: Coach Eric Chelle names Francis Uzoho new number one [See why]

Head coach of the Super Eagles, Eric Chelle, has reportedly settled for Francis Uzoho as the team’s new first-choice goalkeeper.

The decision comes as Stanley Nwabali, who was the hero of Nigeria’s third-place finish at the last AFCON, remains inactive. Nwabali is currently without a club after terminating his contract with South African side, Chippa United.

With the Super Eagles scheduled to return to action later this month, Chelle has moved quickly to fill the void.

Uzoho, who was the second choice at the AFCON, is now set to reclaim the starting shirt he lost to Nwabali.

Investigation by Gistlife reveals that Chelle remains indifferent toward Udinese goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye.

Okoye reportedly snubbed the national team for the last AFCON after being informed he would not be the guaranteed first choice. Sources close to the coach suggest Chelle felt the goalkeeper questioned his authority by refusing the invitation.

While Okoye’s form in the Italian Serie A would naturally make him a top contender, his relationship with the current technical crew remains strained.

Uzoho, however, faces fresh competition from Wrexham goalkeeper, Arthur Okonkwo.

Okonkwo is already part of the squad following his successful switch of nationality from England to Nigeria.

“While Okonkwo can easily partake in friendly encounters, he will need approval of his switch of allegiance application from FIFA to participate in competitive matches like subsequent AFCON and World Cup qualifiers,” a source noted.