A former Super Eagles player, Adebayo Gbadebo, has expressed optimism in the success of a local coach managing the national team, provided a conducive working environment is put in place.
He noted that such an environment should include a reasonable welfare package and non-interference in team selection.
Adebayo Gbadebo, who currently serves as head coach of Suphanburi Football Club, a division one side in Thailand, also expressed concern over the sudden rejection of the Super Eagles job by German tactician Bruno Labbadia.
He suggested that the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) should ensure mutual agreement with any coach before making an official announcement, especially in today’s age of social media, where information spreads quickly.
Coach Gbadebo also urged the NFF to properly manage the Super Eagles to earn the much-needed respect in the global football community.
The former Eagles central defender further called for full support and cooperation for the interim coach of the Super Eagles, Augustine Eguavoen, ahead of the AFCON qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Coach Bruno turned down the Super Eagles job after Finidi George resigned following two consecutive losses since taking charge of the national team in April this year.