Super Eagles technical adviser, Gernot Rohr is set to outline a new approach to tactics and team building for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Seychelles, sequel to the withdrawal of his captain, John Mikel Obi from the game.
With the Tianjin Teda of China midfielder opting out of the September 7 away fixture in order to regain full recovery from a recent injury, Rohr has been forced to adjust his plans to ensure his side get a successful outing without their captain.
The last time the Eagles played in the 2019 AFCON qualifiers, they lost the opening match of the series 2-0 at home against South Africa, such that being without Mikel in Seychelles has already set many fans into apprehension.
Mikel’s absence comes hot on the heel of his former club mate at Chelsea, Victor Moses, who recently announced his retirement from the Eagles, while Rohr’s top two right full backs, Tyronne Ebuehi and Shehu Abdullahi are both out with injuries.
However, the Franco-German gaffer is taking the chain of developments in his stride, and sources close to the Nigerian team believe he will find suitable replacements for the lot.
Rather than get agitated, Rohr said he fully understands the situation and will now make alternative plans, considering that Mikel actually called him to inform about his decision to withdraw from the game.
Rohr disclosed: “We spoke together. He is just coming back from injury and he needs to push his club commitments to get back in shape. After injury he needs time to get fit again.”
