Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has revealed plans to use the upcoming Unity Cup as an opportunity to evaluate new players ahead of future competitions.
Nigeria will defend their title at the four-nation tournament scheduled to take place at The Valley, home of Charlton Athletic, from May 26 to 30.
The competition will also feature India, Zimbabwe and Jamaica. Nigeria is set to face Zimbabwe in one semi-final clash, while India will battle Jamaica for a place in the final.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Chelle emphasized that the Unity Cup will serve as a testing ground for fresh talent, including players based abroad and in the domestic league.
“The Unity Cup provides a platform to assess new players.
” I will comb Europe and invite new players of Nigerian descent, alongside those who were previously called up but never got the chance to feature,” Chelle told the Super Eagles media team.
“Top players from the Nigeria Premier Football League will also be considered as I will be watching a number of domestic league games from now until the end of the season.”
Following the tournament, the Super Eagles are expected to engage in high-profile international friendlies against Poland and Portugal, both seen as key preparation matches ahead of future competitions.
Chelle confirmed that he will rely on his established stars for those encounters.
“For the big warm up games in June against Poland and Portugal, I will feature my first team players.
“These are games that can push up the global ranking if we win them.”
