Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has defended his choice of players for the 2024 African Nations Championship.
Chelle selected nine players from the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL champions Remo Stars, in his final 24‑man squad for the competition.
The Malian has come under intense criticism for his action, especially as one of his assistants, Daniel Ogunmodede, is currently serving as head coach of Remo Stars.
Chelle, however, said he picked players who fit into his style of play.
“My only thinking is I have a philosophy. I want to keep the ball, and when we don’t have the ball, I want us to press high. So I need to bring some players who can play in my philosophy,” the former Eagles of Mali head coach told the Super Eagles media.
The Home Eagles played two friendlies against Zanzibar this week as part of their preparations for the CHAN 2024 finals.
The first friendly ended in a 0‑0 draw, while they were held to a 2‑2 draw in the second game on Thursday.
They will open their CHAN 2024 campaign against defending champions Senegal at the Amman Stadium, Zanzibar, next Tuesday.
