Nigeria’s cadet national team, Golden Eaglets’ coach, Manu Garba has downplayed uneasiness over his side’s belated return to camp, as he says he is still on track for the 2019 African U-17 Cup of Nations in Tanzania.
Although a section of the sporting media has raised alarm over what could be poor planning by Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for the Eaglets, sports247.ng can report that Manu is staying upbeat that he will catch up before the competition begins in April.
Manu did admit, though, that the NFF technical committee is yet to confirm his proposal in preparation for Tanzania 2019.
The UAE 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning coach said he submitted his programme for the continental championship to the NFF long ago, as he has finished arrangements to assemble a formidable squad.
He further disclosed that more players would be invited to compete for shirts in the team when the camp opens.
The Eaglets will face the host nation, Tanzania, Angola and Uganda in Group A, while Group B has Guinea, Cameron, Morocco and Senegal, with the four semi-finalists earning tickets to the FIFA U17 World Cup.
The Eaglets, who will be making their ninth appearance in the biennial event, qualified after winning the WAFU-Zone B U-17 Championship, and Manu believes his side will be more formidable for Tanzania 2019.
Manu expatiated: “The NFF board has not yet responded on my plans. That notwithstanding, we are on track to build a quality team for the Africa championship.
“As soon as the board responds to our programme, the technical crew will start work. All hands are on deck to ensure the Eaglets come out successful in Tanzania.”
