'They deserve to play this game' – Eric Chelle not ruling out home debuts for Felix Agu and Fredrick

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has hinted that newcomers Felix Agu and Benjamin Fredrick could be handed their home debuts when Nigeria face Rwanda in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier in Uyo on Saturday. 

Versatile Werder Bremen fullback Agu and Brentford loanee Fredrick made their first appearances for the Super Eagles in the Unity Cup showpiece against Jamaica on May 31, 2025. 

Having caught the eye of the Malian football tactician, the defenders were handed call-ups for the World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.

Saturday's game carries added significance for Agu as the former Germany U21 international would be cap-tied to Nigeria if he features, even for a single minute, against Rwanda.

Asked whether the pair are part of his immediate plans or being considered with a longer-term view, Chelle kept his cards close to his chest but stressed that every player in the squad is capable of contributing.

"I have a plan in my head, I need to think about this game. Every player in this team can play at every moment – during the game, before the game, after the game," Chelle told reporters at his pre-match press conference.

"They deserve to be here, they deserve to play this game and, like the captain said, this is an honour for them. 

"We need to think about our starters for tomorrow and this is why we spoke together with the players."

While Felix Agu is vying with Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemaechi for a place at fullback, Benjamin Fredrick is unlikely to start, with Troost-Ekong, Bassey and Awaziem ahead of him in the centre-back pecking order.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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