Russia 2018: Rohr considers 35 for Eagles screening

Super Eagles of Nigeria Head coach, Gernot Rohr, has said that he would invite 35 players who can impress and secure a quarterfinal berth for Nigeria at the World Cup later this year in Russia.

The Franco-German coach, who believes the country has all it takes to surpass its previous best of round of 16, admits both he and the Nigeria Football Federation, (NFF), have been working round the clock to ensure the Super Eagles are fully ready before the Mundial.

“We have set a target to reach the quarterfinals of the World Cup and for this reason, we are taking only the best players who are fit and in good form. We have a good programme going to Russia with series of friendly games that will put us in shape for the World Cup.

“I believe it’s not going to be an easy one but I’m confident that with the right preparations and logistics being put in place, the team will do well,” Rohr said.

The Eagles’ handler further revealed that he is looking to have close to 35 players for the World Cup camping out of which he would select the best 23 to represent the country.

“The idea is to have three players for every position in camp from where I would probably pick the best two each and three of the five goalkeepers for the World Cup in Russia,” Rohr stated.

He commended the NFF for the way they sorted out the players’ bonuses and allowances, adding that this will allow the team to concentrate on the game with the assurance that their money is safe.