Sports Briefs
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EMMANUEL Amunike, assistant coach of the Super Eagles, has promised that the team would do the necessary things to ensure that Nigeria beats Egypt to qualify for the Gabon 2017 African Nations Cup.
In an interview published by Egyptian website, kingfut.com, Amunike said the Eagles were not bothered about the names being bandied about by the Pharaohs.
According to the former Zamalek striker, Nigeria respects Egypt but that will not affect the Eagles’ performance in the games.
“I think our chances are bright. Egypt has a good team, good players, we respect them but they should also respect us. We are not bothered about it; we also have a very good team and good players,” he said.
The Super Eagles staff has called up more than 40 players for the national team camp in preparation for Egypt. Several critics have questioned the decision to call a huge number of players for this encounter, with around 20 players plying their trades abroad, especially after Hector Cuper, Egypt manager, called up just five Egyptians playing in Europe.
“We do what we have to do,” Amunike said, adding: “You might see it as too much players being called up but we do not. Egypt called up 25 players and it’s up to them to do what they want but we do what we have to do, what we see suitable.”
Many view these two matches as a crucial point to decide if Siasia, Amunike and the rest of the coaching staff will retain their place on the bench until the Africa Cup of Nations. Amunike, 45, said that no matter what happens he was privileged to be given such responsibility.
“It is not for me to say what will happen later. I don’t know. I’m with the Super Eagles now and with the youth, everyone is supporting me, the federation and the Nigerian fans, so it is a privilege,” Amunike told KingFut.
“I am always giving my best no matter what position I am given, always giving 100 percent. It’s a privilege to be given this position by my country,” he added.
— Mar 28, 2016 @ 01:00 GMT
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