Former international Victor Ikpeba has backed Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali to maintain his number-one spot in the Super Eagles’ goalpost.

Nwabali has come under criticism following some mistakes in his recent appearances for the Super Eagles.

With Maduka Okoye returning to the squad after serving a betting ban, many fans are clamoring for him to start in goal ahead of Nwabali in the crucial World Cup playoffs.

However, Ikpeba insists that Nwabali should remain Eric Chelle’s first-choice goalkeeper.

“Maduka Okoye is back, but Nwabali remains the Super Eagles’ No. 1 despite the recent concerns. At this point, all the players are needed,” Ikpeba said on Monday Night Football.

Nigeria will face Gabon on Thursday, November 13, in the semifinal of the playoffs.

The winner will meet either Cameroon or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the final on Sunday, November 16.

WDN