The Five Nigerian Young Stars Rohr Should Be Keeping A Close Eye On Before Naming AFCON Qualifier Roster

Published: July 25, 2018

The 2018/2019 season is almost upon us. And while the wait and whet our appetites for the round-leather game with the pre-season activities being served up by teams preparing for another go at a seemingly yet another ardous season, let us ponder on some of the best talents our country have to offer, lest we forget the African Cup of Nations qualifiers will return as well.

Manager Gernot Rohr will be desperate to deliver a satisfactory performance in the tournament in 2019, having lost 2-0 to their preliminary group opponents, South Africa, a win against next rivals, Seychelles come September is, by no measure of doubt, nonnegotiable.

Below are some of the starlets the 65-year-old must consider, judging by their recent efficiency, before naming his team to execute those crucial qualifiers..

1) Fred Friday: Friday is gradually showing why he was once hailed to be one who blossoms to lead Nigeria's Dream Team VI few years ago.

Things had taken time to get going for him but this period has seen him net six goals in seven pre-season games for AZ Alkmaar. If Rohr will be in desperate need of a proven goal-getter, he might have to turn to the 23-year-old.

2) Ola Aina: This competition could still provide another opportunity for the Chelsea defender to eventually fulfill his promise. Missed out on this summer's World Cup by inches but having forced himself into the Super Eagles team, the 21-year-old has long been touted to make his breakthrough with The Blues and this could be the season faithfuls get to see that happen.

3) Eberechi Eze: Eze is another one who, surely, should be getting a look in. That he is one of the best talents Championship club, Queen Park Rangers has to offer is not in doubt and was exemplified when he was nominated for their Young Player of the Year award at the end of last season.

He's not done badly for himself this time around, having chipped in with two goals already in pre-season games. Throw in the fact that he has already trained with the national team in the past and it makes it all the more easier.

4) Kelechi Nwakali: It is only a matter of time when Nwakali gets to take up the reigns of the Super Eagles midfield — an enthronement which the Arsenal starlet is very capable of handling.

His recent temporary switch to Portuguese side, FC Porto will guarantee the needed game time and preparation for what he is to face.

5) Taiwo Awoniyi: Liverpool know they have a gem in Awoniyi and have decided to grant him another loan spell with KAA Gent after another sensational season with Royal Excel Mouscron where he netted ten goals (seven assists) in 31 games across all competitions for the club.

Emmanuel Chinaza