Experienced Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho has taken it upon himself to prepare uncapped shot-stoppers Arthur Okonkwo and Michael Atata for the mental demands of representing Nigeria, urging both players to stay composed and trust their abilities, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
- +Uzoho advises Okonkwo, others on Eagles pressure
Uzoho, who has been one of the more seasoned figures in the Unity Cup camp in London, spoke to journalists ahead of Nigeria’s opening semi-final against Zimbabwe at The Valley on Tuesday (today).
Uzoho, who has been one of the more seasoned figures in the Unity Cup camp in London, spoke to journalists ahead of Nigeria’s opening semi-final against Zimbabwe at The Valley on Tuesday (today).
The Omonia Nicosia goalkeeper made his senior Super Eagles debut in a pre-World Cup friendly against Argentina in November 2017 and remains one of the most experienced goalkeepers in the squad.
Coach Eric Chelle handed maiden call-ups to Okonkwo, the former Arsenal academy graduate now at Wrexham, and Ikorodu City youngster Atata for the tournament, and Uzoho said he has already begun passing on key advice to both players.
“It has just been two days with the boys, and I’m trying my best to let them know the importance of them being here, and also it’s a massive opportunity for them to be here,” Uzoho said at the pre-match press conference.
“They should give their best and just be relaxed, and everything will work out fine.”
The experienced goalkeeper also explained his approach to mentoring younger players, saying he prefers to offer guidance at the right moments rather than overwhelm them with information.
“For Arthur Okonkwo and the other goalkeeper, I always like talking to the boys whenever I have the chance. I don’t like bothering them with so much information. Whenever I see it’s the right time, I talk them through and make them understand that playing for Nigeria comes with so much pressure, so they should withstand the pressure because they are good goalkeepers already.”
“It’s all about the mentality representing Nigeria, so if they can work on their mentality. There are going to be ups and downs, so they should be able to maintain the pressure,” Uzoho added.
The goalkeeper was last in action for Nigeria in a friendly against Jordan, where he played for approximately one hour before being replaced by Adebayo Adeleye.
