The Super Eagles goalkeeping debate is one that has lingered over the last few years since Francis Uzoho and Maduka Okoye made their Super Eagles debut in 2017 and 2019 respectively.
At a point it seemed Maduka Okoye had it locked down and was in action for Nigeria during the 2021 AFCON, however Uzoho has reclaimed his place and had started the last 6 matches of new manager Jose Peseiro.
It is important to note that both players are not first choice in their respective clubs as Francis Uzoho is considered as back up to Fabiano at Omonia Nicosia and was recently given game time due to injury suffered by the Brazilian.
He recently started in the 4-0 trashing by APOEL in the Cyprus first division.
On the other hand, Maduka has found playing time hard to come by since signing for English side Watford and is considered second choice behind Austria’s goalie Daniel Bachmann.
The goal keeping situation is one for concern and Goalkeeper trainer, Ike Shorunmu, has admitted that they are on the look out for reinforcements.
The former Nigerian shot stopper revealed this in an Interview with the Guardian, he however claimed that as a strong advocate of grass root football development, he is finding it difficult to access the goalkeeping options in the NPFL.
He also cleared the air on the Uzoho and Okoye debate, over who the Super Eagles first choice goalkeeper was, currently.
“We are looking inwards to get credible goalkeepers from the domestic league,” Shorunmu told the Guardian.
“As you can see, the Nigeria Professional Football League has not been active, and we cannot assess the goalkeepers right now.
“So, Uzoho will remain the first-choice goalkeeper till a better keeper is discovered from the NPFL or any other league.
“I have been an advocate of sourcing for keepers in the domestic scene, and that vision still stands. The doors are still open for more keepers to compete in the national team.”
