'At The Start Of The Season, He Was The Best Dribbler In Europe' - Rohr Backs Samuel Kalu

Published: February 11, 2020

Bordeaux winger Samuel Kalu has received backing from Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr after falling out of favour at his French Ligue 1 club.

If his fortunes do not improve, the former Gent star risks being dropped from the Nigeria squad to face Sierra Leone in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers next month as he has been frozen out of the Bordeaux team, missing their last five matches in all competitions.

Bordeaux coach Paulo Sousa has publicly criticized Kalu for his attitude towards training and lack of professionalism.

Speaking to regional French daily Sud Ouest, Rohr said : "Samuel is a good boy, he always had an exemplary behavior in national team. At the start of the season, he was the best dribbler in Europe, he did good things even if he was not at his position.

"He has the characteristics of a wingman, the percussion, the technique, the speed, the center in first intension, a good strike, he can play on both sides.

"I have news from him, he had a little injury, I hope he returns to the field soon."

Kalu, who has played 19 games for Bordeaux this term, was linked with a departure from the club in the winter transfer market but nothing came out of it.

Igho Kingsley