Nations Cup: Keshi prefers commitment to form

Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi has said he will pick players for the AFCON based on their commitment before their form at their various clubs.

It promises to be a Titanic battle for squad places in the Super Eagles for next year’s Nations Cup in South Africa, and Keshi has now revealed how committed a player is to the country’s cause will be top consideration when he picks his final 23-man squad.

“It’s not how well you play for your club, but the 120 per cent you give me when I invite you that will be crucial in my decision,” he said.

”We have a lot of our players starting for their clubs now and that is very good. Ahmed Musa, Mikel Obi, Nosa Igiebor,Ike Uche, Brown Ideye and others and this is what I want because it keeps them fit and in shape.”

He is expected to submit his final squad list to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in the first week of January.

Keshi admitted he would face a selection headache ahead of the AFCON because many of his players are now doing well inEurope.

”Selection headache? Yes, to an extent because all the players are doing well,” he said.

The Eagles are expected to open a training camp for players from the domestic league on December 17 inAbujabefore they fly out toFaro,Portugal, to intensify training for the Nations Cup.