Eagles must work hard to succeed, says Balogun

“It is true that even at this time some players are needed by their clubs. But for this period, the country should take precedence over clubs,” Balogun pointed out. “We have all observed that a situation where players arrive camp about two or three days to the competition does not augur well for team organisation.”

The foundation also demanded of the players who are already at home ahead of the opening of the camp not to be carried away by the spirit of the season to over indulge themselves. He said: “We know that many of the players have had hectic season and, ordinarily, would want to celebrate with their loved ones.

“But by virtue of the football calendar, they have to do the extra mile for the Nations Cup. Fitness is crucial in the business. It therefore calls for their sacrifice and self-discipline.”

Balogun further cautioned Nigerian football fans that overbearing criticism of the technical crew could create distractions and a crisis of confidence, which at the end might prove counter-productive. He said: “We all want the Super Eagles to raise the standard of their game above how they played during the qualifiers.

“But it should be noted that no foreign coach can give you a guarantee to perform any better, to win the Nations Cup or the World Cup. Right now, we are with Amodu (Shaibu), who qualified us for both competitions. The best we can do is to generate a positive air for the team by supporting him and the boys. If we keep condemning and reducing him, it would be counter-productive.”