Why Torino Midfielder Joel Obi Should Be Recalled To The Super Eagles

Joel Obi’s potential has never been in doubt but injuries have limited his playing time and seemingly restricted him from reaching his full potentials that has made many rank amongst the top two midfielders Nigeria never had.

With his impressive performances for Torino this season, a return might as well be on the horizon.

When fit, he is impossible to ignore due to his brilliance and great passing range which would probably be  second to John Mikel Obi.

What the Super Eagles needs is a player that can pick a pass and at the same time hold possession in tight situations.

It is well known to many that while we have so many options in midfield, we currently have none that boasts of this ability other than Mikel.

While it is known that both Ndidi and Onazi are 'moppers' , Etebo a workaholic, Ogu a calm distributor and Mikel has been assigned to be the man in the hole behind the striker,  we might as well agree that we need that extra edge of creativity to help shift burden from Mikel.

He also brings to the table if needed 'the extra body' in the opposition's box.

The most exciting part of this all is, his ability during dead all situations. This is one aspect the Super Eagles need to work on.

It is evident that Gernot Rohr feels the same way,  which led to the invitation of Chidibere Nwakali while Obi was injured some months ago for the game against Algeria .

Though not much of a dead-ball specialist, Nwakali has a similar style of play to Obi

And so, begs the question ...should Joel Obi be recalled? Ask many football loving Nigerians, the answer would be a deafening 'yes'.

Other than his brittle hamstrings, it is noteworthy that Obi once managed to play a total of 27 league games for Inter Milan when he was properly managed, he also harnessed a total of 20 games last season.

So I ask why not give this man another shot at becoming great?

Yusuf Jimoh