Baruwa, Iyemeni hail Keshi over Yobo, Osaze

Abiodun Baruwa and Furo iyemeni have thrown their weight behind Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi’s decision to name Osaze Odemwingie and Joseph Yobo on his 30-man provisional list for this summer’s World Cup in Brazil. In-form Stoke City striker Osaze is making a comeback to the Super Eagles after spending two years in the international wilderness after his Twitter rant against Keshi. On-loan Norwich Yobo has not worn the national colours after falling out of favour with the Eagles manager following his unimpressive showing in the Africa Cup of Nations won by Nigeria in South Africa last year. However, former internationals Baruwa and Iyemeni believe Keshi has made the right decision by giving the duo an opportunity to play their way back into the national team. “Yes, I’m happy over Yobo and Osaze’s inclusion in the squad,” ex-Nigeria goalkeeper Baruwa told our correspondent during the week. “In a major competition like the World Cup you need experienced players. I think Keshi has done well. He made the right decision including them on his (provisional) list.” The former Shooting Stars custodian, who made the France ’98 World Cup squad, said Keshi should not be criticised from omitting certain players from his list. He said, “Keshi has his reasons for dropping those missing from the list. Every coach has his plans. Maybe they didn’t fit into the formations he is going for. You need players that can adapt and play to your system.” Ghana/Nigeria 2000 Africa Cup of Nations silver medallist Iyemeni said Keshi’s decision should be respected. “I understand how the players who were dropped are feeling now but there’s no way the coach can go to Brazil with everybody,” the ex-Eagles defender told our correspondent. He can’t play every good player at the World Cup. Keshi also took the right decision to include Osaze and Yobo on the list.” Meanwhile, former Eagles coach Paul Hamilton has expressed his satisfaction with Keshi’s list. “The list is not an endless one which can take everyone and so what we are seeing is expected,” the ex-international was quoted by the News Agency of Nigeria as saying during the week. “Keshi knows what he wants and I’m sure he used that in his selection process. I’m sure he has good intentions.” On his part, Nigeria ’80 Africa Cup of Nations winner Henry Nwosu urged Nigerians to support and respect Keshi’s selection.