'A great one' - Ilechukwu hails Chelle for calling up NPFL stars, urges home-based players to dream big

Super Eagles assistant coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has urged the home-based players invited to the national team to make the most of the opportunity and use it as a springboard to advance their careers abroad.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle included nine players from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) in his 26-man squad for the upcoming Unity Cup — a move that has drawn praise from football stakeholders across the country.

Ilechukwu applauded Chelle’s decision, commending him for giving the domestic talents a platform to showcase their abilities on a bigger stage.

In an interview with All Nigeria Soccer, Ilechukwu emphasized the significance of the call-ups for the morale of home-based players across the league.

"I am so happy that Rangers players were invited. The head coach is a great one and the opportunity he's giving the NPFL players is very important," Ilechukwu told allnigeriasoccer.com on Thursday morning.

"This is the kind of thing we are waiting for and we thank God he gave them the opportunity.

"It is also a very good confidence for the home-based players, they will believe that - if they do well, they will have the opportunity to play in the Super Eagles."

He urged the players to seize the opportunity by staying focused, following the manager’s instructions, and continually improving in order to attract bigger transfers and advance their careers.

"They must understand that there are thousands of players out there in Nigeria waiting for this opportunity. 

"They must keep their head down, take instructions, and pray the opportunity opens door for greener pastures."

Nigeria will compete in a four-nation tournament featuring Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and Ghana.

The Super Eagles will take on Ghana in the second semifinal clash at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Adeyemi Adewale

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