As the debate rages over the appointment of a new coach for the Nigerian national team, a well-travelled former striker, Henry Makinwa says the next gaffer must be able to command respect from the players.
Makinwa’s verdict comes against the backdrop of reports that some of the Super Eagles’ players disrespected ex-international winger, Finidi George during the two matches he handled them as interim coach.
Read Also: Super Eagles May Eventually Need ‘Miracle Working’ Coach – Okunnowo
Many observers were of the view that the Eagles’ defeat by Mali was simply down to the reluctance with which the Nigerian players entered the pitch, and many of them showed physical disrespect towards Finidi whenever he called them over for instructions.
Although Makinwa did not categorically mention any of those incidents, there appeared to be an insinuation in that direction by the ex-youth international, who is no relation to former Super Eagles striker, Ayo Makinwa.
The graduate of Agricultural Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, who plied his trade in Portugal, Spain, China, Egypt and Greece, stressed that winning matches goes beyond the implementation of good tactics from a coach.
The former gaffer at Abia Warriors of Umuahia and Katsina United added that he does not have any preferences between foreign or indigenous coaches, as long as the person that is eventually appointed can get the job done.
Makinwa submitted: “They have to get a technical sidekick in the NFF to interview the best man, either black or white, to get the job.
“I think the main thing we should be looking at is the philosophy of the manager. What strategy does he want to play? That’s number one. “Number two, he has to come with so much respect from the players.
“So, it doesn’t really matter if it’s an indigenous or foreign coach. We need to pick the best person to do the job.”
