Retired Nigerian footballer Samson Siasia has voiced concerns about the current state of the Super Eagles’ midfield. Following a goalless draw against Rwanda, Siasia emphasised the team’s need for a playmaker similar to Jay-Jay Okocha, capable of delivering decisive passes to the strikers.
Although Alex Iwobi has been a regular starter for the Super Eagles, he was replaced by Fisayo Dele Bashiru in a recent match. According to Siasia, Iwobi has not lived up to expectations as an offensive midfielder. In an interview, Siasia said, We don’t have an offensive midfield player who can give that final pass to the strikers. We have great forwards, but we need someone in the middle who can make the difference.
Siasia further elaborated that while Iwobi is a talented player, he hasn’t fulfilled the demands of an attacking midfielder. He called for a midfielder with not just creativity but also a goal scoring ability, stating, We need someone like Jay-Jay Okocha, but someone who can score more goals.
Siasia, who is now eligible to return to coaching after his FIFA ban, stressed that addressing the midfield deficiency is crucial for the future success of the Super Eagles.
Editorial
The Super Eagles’ performance has been commendable in many aspects, yet it is apparent that something is missing. Samson Siasia’s recent remarks underscore what we have observed for some time: the need for a truly creative force in the heart of the midfield. While Alex Iwobi has shown brilliance in the past, it is becoming clear that he is not the solution in the central offensive role.
The absence of a player capable of making that crucial final pass limits the effectiveness of our already formidable attack. We have the strikers to finish the job, but they require more than just decent service they need a player with the vision, flair, and precision to unlock defences. Siasia’s comparison to Jay-Jay Okocha is a high standard, but one that is not out of reach for the Super Eagles. Okocha was not just a playmaker; he was a game changer. To emulate his impact, the team needs someone who can not only distribute the ball effectively but also take responsibility for scoring when opportunities arise.
Addressing this issue in the midfield should be the top priority for the Super Eagles. While other areas of the squad are functioning well, such as the defence and wide midfield, the central creative role can make or break our future campaigns. It’s not enough to rely on strikers alone. A cohesive team with a strong midfield general, capable of controlling the pace and flow of the game, is essential for consistent success.
Siasia’s eligibility to return to coaching could also be a factor to consider. His insight into the game and knowledge of the Super Eagles could prove invaluable in identifying the right player to fill this gap. We believe it is time for the team to invest in nurturing or recruiting a midfielder who not only meets these expectations but exceeds them. The Super Eagles deserve nothing less.
Did You Know?
- Jay-Jay Okocha scored 14 goals in 73 appearances for Nigeria, a remarkable feat for a midfielder.
- Alex Iwobi is the nephew of Jay-Jay Okocha, yet plays in a different style to the legendary playmaker.
- Samson Siasia was banned by FIFA for five years, starting in 2019, due to bribery related charges.
- Nigeria has produced several world class midfielders, including John Obi Mikel, who played a different but crucial defensive role.
- The Super Eagles have won the Africa Cup of Nations three times, most recently in 2013, with midfield creativity playing a crucial part in their success.
