Garba Lawal commends Super Eagles new boy, Sanusi

A former international, Garba Lawal, has hailed the performance of Super Eagles new left- back, Zaidu Sanusi, but said the FC Porto defender needs to improve on his final crosses, especially when he is at the by-line.

The 23-year-old Kebbi State born defender was among the six players who recently debuted for the senior national team in the two friendly matches against Algeria and Tunisia in Austria.

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The others are Kelvin Akpoguma (Hoffenheim), Cyril Desser (Genk), Chidera Ejuke (CSKA Moscow), Samson Tijanni TVS Harberg) and Frank Onyeka (FC Midtjylland).

Of the six, Sanusi enjoyed more time on the pitch as he lasted through the duration of the first match against Algeria and was on the verge of recording another 90 minutes of action before a groin injury forced him out of the tie with the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia.

Before his invitation to the Super Eagles, most football pundits had tipped him to give the more established left-back, Jamilu Collins a run for his money.

Interestingly, his performances in the two friendlies caught the attention of many with Lawal saying the player justified his inclusion in the team.

He told Trust Sports that the left-footed defender deserves more opportunities for him to establish himself in the Super Eagles.

“I am impressed with the performances of the new players.

“I think they all did well. The performance of Zaidu Sanusi caught my eyes the most because he showed great composure and ability to join the attack.

“However, he needs to improve on his final passes.

“He has to work on his crosses especially when he gets to the byline.

“If he can do away with some of the elementary mistakes, he would be a fantastic left-back for the Super Eagles,” said Garba Lawal.

The former Roda JC of Holland star also said since Gernot Rohr cannot continue to experiment, he should immediately decide on the debutants to be injected into the main squad.