When the head coach of the Nigeria U20 team released the list of players who will be in camp ahead of their campaign at the upcoming WAFU tournament in Niger Republic as many as 45 players were called up.
Coach Ladan Bosso expamded his sight and scouting to teams all round Nigeria not excluding players from the various academies in Nigeria. The coach is hoping to get the right blend to help the team succeed.
OwnGoalNigeria.com senior editor, Mohammed Yusuf Suleiman picks five relatively unknown players who he has been monitoring for a while and were picked by Bosso in his 44 man list.
Abdulmajeed Ibrahim (Global FC) – As a Kaduna person. I first saw this defensive midfielder in a test game in Abuja which had some scouts around. Abdul was simply sensational in the way he carries the ball and also win tackles. He can also play further up the pitch as a playmaker.
His abilities didn’t go unnoticed as he is still been tracked by teams in Italy, Spain and Norway. I learnt his move has been placed on hold to allow him focus on the U20 team.
Divine Nwachukwu (Adoration FC) – Long time coming. He has been on my radar since the U13 team of years ago. He moved to the U15 and later U17 team within a space of one year. Very lively and fearless. Love to be on the ball where his pace, skills and finishing can be best utilised. Huge prospect.
Benjamin Frederick (ABS FC) – Two years ago I wrote a story on a teen prospect at Simoiben Academy funded by Super Eagles star Moses Simon. That kid has grown into a monster defender at ABS much to the words of the Belgium based agent who rated him as the best teen defender in Nigeria two years ago. Back to back man of the match award for ABS in the NNL shows his growth.
He was picked as the best defender at a pre season tournament in Abuja that had as many as three NPFL teams in Wikki Tourist, Katsina United and Plateau United. It was then that I became a believer of his talent.
Yakubu Adams ( Akwa United) – I sighted him while doing commentary job for NPFL.tv then he was at Adamawa United. Six months later he won the league with Akwa United. He can pick a pass from 50 yards out. Controls the game from deep. Shoots really well and also defends when he has to. This midfielder from GBS Academy in Jos has what it takes to make the step up to a top team in the nearest future.
Hillary Albert (Plateau United) – Plateau United super sub. Quick, direct and with an eye for goal. First saw him in Jos playing for GBS Academy and recommended him to Katsina United. For reasons best known to them he wasn’t signed. Now at title chasers Plateau United he has 4 goals and three assists.
Plays more like Sadio Mane of Liverpool. His inclusion is a testament to his growth in just three months in the NPFL. Can be a difference maker any day.
