Head coach of the senior national team of Nigeria Jose Peseiro has explained why Francis Uzoho is still the first choice goalkeeper of the Super Eagles despite his recent spate of errors, OwnGoalNigeria.comreports.
Uzoho’s position has come under serious scrutiny in the wake of his back to back errors for the team’s friendly games against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique respectively.
Many have called for the goalkeeper who is yet to make a single appearance for Cypriot side Omonia Nicosia to be dropped from the starting lineup, with Adebayo Adeleye who is enjoying a constant run of games at Israeli side Hapoel Jerusalem viewed as a better option.
Some are even calling for the return of Maduka Okoye as first choice even though he is yet to make an appearance for Serie A side Udinese, the thinking is that he is at a top league and a tougher place than Uzoho, Peseiro is however adamant.
He said the blame shouldn’t be on the goalkeepers alone as even the striker’s are guilty of missing chances, but don’t get criticized like the shot stoppers. He went further to explain why Uzoho is still finding favours with him.
“In Nigeria, every time they attack the goalkeepers,” Peseiro told BBC Sport Africa.
“Why don’t they attack the strikers who miss goals? It is the same.”
” If I change them every time, or punish them when they make mistakes, one day I won’t have any players, because every player makes mistakes,” he said.
“We understand and accept that the fans are free to shout or speak. It is normal.
“Me, Uzoho and the players accept that. It is my obligation and my responsibility to keep the confidence and support our players.”
Ade Emmanuel