Hamilton wants F-Eagles to rule the world

BY JACOB  AJOM
After winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup on three occasions and two runners up medals at the U-20 category, a former national team coach, Paul Hamilton has said that the present crop of the junior national team, the Flying Eagles must strive to win the Columbia 2011 tournament.

Hamilton who led the Flying Eagles to a bronze at the Moscow ’85 tournament said he had faith in the John Obuh led team, despite their poor showing in the pre-World Cup four-nation tournament in Panama.

“I am happy that a good percentage of the team represented Nigeria at the Nigeria 2009 U-17 championship. There is a level of continuity in the team under the same coach. I expect them to do well,” Hamilton said.

He advised the players to put the poor results attained at the pre-World Cup invitational and prepare their minds toward the tournament proper.

“My only fear about the team is that of fatigue. They have been camping for sometime now and have played many matches. I have a feeling of being burnt out. If they get enough time to rest in Columbia, I believe they will sparkle,” the Moscow ’85 bronze winning coach said.

Continuing, Hamilton said the  most important thing was for the team to post a good performance at the tournament. It is time we won that cup. You know Nigerians, we are very bad losers. They have to play well to justify the huge investment in them.”