Keshi explains Okonkwo's recall
by Humphrey Njoku 21 December 2012, 07:31
Super Eagles manager, Stephen Keshi has said he called up experienced right back, Chibuzor Okonkwo because he believes that every person deserves a second chance in life.
Keshi however said the Heartland strongman must justify his call up.
Okonkwo was among the first set of home-based professionals Keshi invited last December but after a few days in camp he bolted out of the country for a fruitless trials with English Premier League side, Aston Villa.
This was after the former Nigerian captain had decreed that home-based players must be ready to stay at least six months with the national team before attempting to travel abroad for greener pastures. Since then he has been overlooked.
Keshi said he deserves a second chance because he is a versatile player and has the experience that can impact positively on the national team.
"But he has to prove that he’s a better player in terms of discipline and action on the pitch," Keshi said.
The former Bayelsa United defender played the second half in the 1-1 draw against NPL club, Nasarawa United in a tune-up match on Thursday and showed flashes of his old self.
