BY SAB OSUJI

Chuks Akuneto, a former Nigeria international and Oldham Athletic FC U19 Manager, has hissed at reports suggesting that newly installed Super Eagles coach, Finidi George, is looking to hire expatriate coaches as his Assistants during his reign as Nigeria Senior National Team Manager, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

Akuneto spoke to Exclusivenews.com.ng from his UK base, reckoning that such a move, if its indeed true, would defeat the long patriotic call for Nigerian indigenous coaches to take center stage of Super Eagles coaching job.

He would however give a caveat, saying he can only support a foreign coach as Assistant to 'Finito' if such an expatriate gaffer has 'Nigerian Origin'.

"I think we have for long clamoured for a Nigerian to be in charge (of the senior National team) so it is unclear why Finidi would have to go to Europe to find an assistant except he is Nigerian Origin", starts Akuneto in a most humble and realistic tone. 

"I don't have anything against coaches from anywhere though but if it's true that Finidi George is looking to hire foreign coach to tinker the Super Eagles, its an indirect slap on the long desire and call by Nigerian Coaches to have a go at the Super Eagles coaching job.

"However, if such 'foreign coach' has Nigerian Origin, I have no qualms".

'Finito' will have his hands full when he makes his senior national team competitive game debut against South Africa and Republic of Benin in the USA, Mexico and Canada 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers early next month.

Super Eagles are behind South Africa on the group standings, making the match 'a must win' for the three time African Champions.

Akuneto would therefore offer some kind, patriotic technical advise to Super Eagles 'new Sheriff' in town as the big match day beckons.

"Finidi, in my candid opinion, must include the following in his plans:

"First, he should quickly establish the group of players he wants to work with", offers the dark-skinned gaffer.

"Secondly, he should get in touch in order to establish relationships to start the team building process.

"As much as possible, Finidi should quickly establish and consolidate a 'fit for purpose' scouting network to find/monitor players.

"Then, the rest is down to his abilities to prepare a team that can deliver for the country", the Oldham Athletic FC U19s gaffer summed up.