Udi Urges Merit-Based Selection for Super Eagles

Duke Udi, a former midfielder for the Super Eagles, has called on the head coach Eric Chelle to adopt a strict merit-based approach in selecting players for the Nigerian national football team. Udi's remarks come as Nigeria prepares for the upcoming Unity Cup scheduled to take place in London next month, where they will compete against India, Zimbabwe, and Jamaica.

He warns against favoritism in player selection, stressing that only players in top form should represent the nation. The Unity Cup aims to foster international ties and prepare the team for the upcoming qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, which will resume in June.

Coach Eric Chelle, who took charge of the Super Eagles earlier this year, has the opportunity to assess squad depth and build chemistry ahead of the qualifiers. Udi's comments reflect growing calls from fans and pundits for transparency in the selection process, especially given Nigeria's mixed results in recent friendlies.