Only hard-working players will be part of my squad, says Siasia

Super Eagles interim coach, Samson Siasia, has charged the home-based Eagles to raise the standard of their game to stand a chance of earning a place in the final 23 man squad for the double-header games against the Pharaohs of Egypt,

Siasia who spoke through the Super Eagles Media Officer Toyin Ibitoye yesterday, noted that the remaining 13 domestic players in camp have the chance to compete favorably with their foreign-based counterparts, if they show more commitment and resilience in training.

Siasia however debunked the rumors that he had lost confidence in the home-based lads owing to their not too impressive performances in the tune up matches against Katsina Unied and the U-23 Eagles.He said that every player invited for the Nations Cup cracker must fight to get a place in the team.

Siasia also added that the technical crew had pleaded with the overseas players to report early in camp, adding that it would enable them blend properly before the crucial encounter.

The interim coach assured that he would pick the best players for the games in Kaduna and Alexandra.“The Home-based Eagles will resume training today (Monday) after playing for their various clubs at the weekend,” Ibetoyi said.

“The coach has told them that this week is a crucial period for training and he has urged them to raise the standard of their game to avoid being sent packing from the camp.

“Coach Siasia has no intention of using only foreign–based players for the game against Egypt. He has emphasized that there must be healthy competition between the home and foreign based players to assemble a formidable squad for the matches. The Eagles will be departing Abuja for Kaduna this week to finalize preparation for the qualifiers,” he said.