Siasia assures Martins of Eagles’ invitation

Lagos:  The Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia, has assured Obafemi Martins of a place in the team when he regains full fitness.

The assurance was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Super Eagles Press Officer, Colin Udoh.

It said the 26-year-old Rubin Kazan player had not featured for the national team under Siasia.

The statement also said that the player was included in the team’s two games in March, a 2012 African Nations Cup qualifier at home to Ethiopia, and a friendly against Kenya but was prevented by injury.

“I called him before their game on Wednesday and assured him that he was still a key member of the squad and will be invited as soon as he is fully fit.

“I also passed my condolences on his brother’s passing and wished him the best for his game.

“I also told him, like I have said to the other players in camp, that anyone who has any issues should come and talk to me about it because there is nothing we cannot resolve by talking.

“He was very happy to hear from me and we had a very good frank and open conversation,” Siasia said in the statement.

According to the statement, Martins is pleased with the coach’s efforts and explanation.

“We talked and I spoke my mind. He listened to me and told me we are all learning, and we have to work together.

“It was a very good conversation and I am happy he called,” the statement added. (NAN)