Keshi allows NPFL players to play midweek games in order to avoid distractions

 
Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi has allowed players invited to the Super Eagles for next month’s 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad to feature for their clubs in Wednesday’s Nigeria Professional Football League Week 10 matches.

Camp was scheduled to open on Tuesday with 26 players from the domestic scene. However, they can now go back to play for their clubs in tomorrow's matches.

“We want to allow the players to feature for their clubs in the midweek games, so that they will know that once they report to camp, they will not be going anywhere again," Keshi was quoted by the NFF website.
“It is important that they come to camp and concentrate. We don’t want distractions, especially with the team scheduled to play a number of friendly matches in the weeks to come before the qualifier against Chad."

All the 26 players were expected to report to camp on Tuesday, but the grace of 48 hours will now ensure they help their clubs’ fortunes in the Week 10 matches.

The 53-year-old former defender has invited three goalkeepers, nine defenders, six midfielders and eight strikers from the domestic league for the match, with the list of overseas-based professionals due to be released this weekend.

Nigeria have been drawn in an Afcon qualifying group that includes Egypt, Chad and Tanzania and will play their first game against Chad in Kaduna on June 13.