Akanni backs Rohr to lead the Super Eagles to glory, cautions critics

Former Nigerian international Waidi Akanni has thrown his weight behind Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr, backing the German to succeed and lead the team to win trophies.

Waidi, who spoke to Soccernet.ng on the backdrop of the Super Eagles’ unconvincing performance in the two-legged friendly matches against Cameroon, cautioned those already calling for the head of Rohr.

He reminded critics of the German tactician that Rohr had convincingly qualified the team for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations and has an impressive record since taking over the team.

“This is not the time to condemn Gernot Rohr but a time to appreciate some of the things he has achieved for the Super Eagles,” Akanni told Soccernet.

“He’s still the man I believe has the capability to take the Super Eagles to the promised land.”

“His technical capacity has never been in doubt, and I see no reason why some people will be calling for his sack when he has not disappointed Nigerians.”

“Mind you, he qualified the Super Eagles to the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations with a game to spare, unlike in the past when we have to do permutations.

“Rohr has plenty to offer the Super Eagles, and in no time, we shall see the difference,” he concluded.

Rohr has overseen the integration of talents such as Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen and Joe Aribo.

It’s worth noting that Nigeria had the second-youngest squad at the 2019 Nations Cup and the youngest at the World Cup, which is evidence of Rohr’s ushering in this talented new generation.