Nigeria head coach, Stephen Keshi has revealed that players like Peter Odemwingie, Taye Taiwo and Ikechukwu Uche could be handed shock recalls to the national team ahead of the 2014 Fifa World Cup in Brazil.
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Keshi stunned many by leaving out experienced talent from his 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and received a backlash from many who felt he was treading on thin ice.
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He was eventually justified in his selections as Nigerian romped to a third Afcon success with a relatively inexperienced squad.
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The "Big Boss" as Keshi is fondly called has now revealed that he has not shut the door completely on any individual as he begins preparations for the World Cup.
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"Contrary to what some people think, I have not shut the door on players like Osaze (Peter Odemwingie), Ike Uche and even Taiye Taiwo. They are Nigerians and are eligible to play for the Super Eagles at all times," Keshi exclusively said.
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The gaffer however stated that they will only get a look in if they "prove themselves."
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"When I was in the national team, nobody had an automatic shirt. I was the captain but I did not play in all the games.
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"Everyday in training, it was war. We fought and sweated to show the coaches that we were worthy of the shirt. That is the norm now as well," he said.