By KATE OBODO
Former Golden Eaglets and Falcons Coach Godwin Izilein, has said the inclusion of West Brom striker, Osaze Odemwingie in the international friendly against Ghana’s Black Stars on August 9 in London, will boost the Super Eagles morale.

Odemwingie, after his settlement with the head Samson Siasia, was recalled to the squad, alongside Emmanuel Ekpo and others to face Ghana in London next month. According to Izilein, having Odemwingie back in the team after months of suspension is a welcome development.

He said Odemwingie’s impact in the match will do a lot of good for the team, adding that the August 9 friendly should be taken seriously as it will be crucial to Nigeria’s image.

He hinted that a win in the encounter will spur the team on to face Madagascar in the Africa Nations Cup qualifier in September.

“The match between our Under-23 team and Ghana is past, the present is what we should be concerned about. What we should be thinking about is the fitness of the players and how we are going to dismantle the Ghanaian team .

Osaze Odemwingie

Moreover, the team in question is different from the Under-23 team entirely. Remember Ghana have humiliated us in London a couple of years ago and I think that is right in the mind of coach Siasia. I know he is doing every thing within his scope to ensure we do not get humiliated again.

“My joy is that Osaze is back. I believe his is going to get Siasia somewhere. Osaze is a good player and he is going to be an asset to the entire team. And I’m expecting a good game , I respect Odemwingie because of his speed in the game and his contribution to the national team. Also I believe his team mates are happy to have him back in the team. I am expecting a good game in London. I was happy to see some good names in the list just released for the match and I am confident they will deliver,”

He however, advised Siasia to be more focused and adopt a pattern that will be best suited for the game

“My candid advice to Siasia is that, he should not think of the U-23 team defeat any more. He should focus on what to do to dismantle the Ghanians come August 9th . That is to say he should start talking to the players positively to be strong for the match,” he said.