As reactions continue to trail the appointment of Finidi George as Super Eagles new coach, a former international, Oladimeji Lawal, has said the European Champions League winner with Ajax Amsterdam deserves his latest elevation.
On Monday, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) appointed the former Super Eagles sensational winger to take charge of the three-time African champions after acting in an interim capacity for more than a month.
The appointment of the Rivers State-born coach has drawn mixed reactions with some football stakeholders saying another former international Emmanuel Amuneke was best suited for the position.
However, the NFF acting on the recommendation of its technical committee settled for the coach of Enyimba FC who until February, 2024, served as assistant to coach Jose Peseiro.
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He was a member of the technical crew when the Super Eagles finished as runners-up at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire.
Reacting to Finidi’s appointment, the former Real Madrid player and General Manager of 3SC of Ibadan said he and other Nigerians are solidly behind the coach who had paid his dues as a Super Eagles player.
He said any other coach could have picked the job to coach the Super Eagles but Finidi also deserves the appointment.
Writing on his Facebook page, Lawal a former player of Julius Berger of Lagos and 3SC said “Best of luck FINITO, the gentle giant. He conquered as a reputable baller. He won the NPFL in his first stint as a gaffer, and worked with Peseiro as they took us to AFCON finals.
“He served this country diligently during his playing days. He was a strong member of our first World Cup appearance, was privileged to win UEFA champions league with Ajax, and played in some of the best leagues in the world. Here is FINIDI GEORGE, the new Super Eagles Manager.
“We are all solidly behind you. Though it could have been any other choice, the truth is you all deserve it. I personally pray for God’s guidance and protection as you embark on this journey. Shalom.”
Finidi has his work cut out for him as his immediate task is to qualify the Super Eagles for the 2025 AFCON and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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