Former Nigeria international Sam Elijah believes goalkeepers in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) have what it takes to compete with Europe-based players for the Super Eagles’ number one spot, Footynaija.com reports.
In an exclusive report by Legit.ng, the ex-midfielder said Nigeria already has a solid structure in place that can help home-based players rise through the ranks into the national team.
“I can tell you that we have lots of goalkeepers in the Nigeria Premier Football League and other European leagues who can fight for the number one shirt,” Elijah said.
“We have a template already in the Nigeria Football Federation, and all we need to do is graduate the goalkeepers from the junior to senior categories like Francis Uzoho.”
Elijah’s comments come at a time when the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping situation is once again under public discussion, following Maduka Okoye’s return from suspension and mixed performances for Italian Serie A side Udinese.
Fans have been calling for greater inclusion of NPFL goalkeepers who have impressed this season, including the likes of Ojo Olorunleke of Enyimba FC. Many believe the domestic league now has enough quality to produce consistent options for coach Eric Chelle.
Okoye’s situation has dominated the headlines since his comeback, but voices like Elijah’s reflect a wider debate among Nigerian football circles.
The former Flying Eagles star, who played at the 1989 FIFA U20 World Cup, added that consistency and exposure will be key if local goalkeepers are to make the jump to the senior level.
