Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Amaju Pinnick has revealed that he preferred hiring a foreign manager over a local coach during his tenure.

In an exclusive interview on Arise TV's morning show, Pinnick explained that while local coaches possess the necessary knowledge and technical abilities, they lack the requisite skills in managing players.

Pinnick, who served as NFF president for two terms, stated that the issue of respect between players and coaches is a significant factor.

"Everybody knows that I have always advocated for a foreign coach when I was president of the NFF, and I have my reasons. Even before I got into the NFF, I observed very clearly that Nigerian coaches have the requisite knowledge and technical ability, but it goes beyond technical ability in managing players. One thing that is quite elemental when you want to manage a player is that of respect. But do they have respect for the coaches? That's a question for another day."

Pinnick noted that despite the impressive careers of former internationals turned coaches, the current players may not have the same level of respect for them.

"I observed that, and no matter how these players-turned-coaches have played, the current players possibly do not have that kind of respect. That is just one reason."

The NFF is currently searching for a new head coach for the Super Eagles following Finidi George's resignation after just two matches in charge. Pinnick, 53, is currently seeking reelection to the FIFA Council.