Former Super Eagles midfielder John Ogu has revealed that former Nigeria head coach Gernot Rohr “downgraded” him ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, which ultimately led to his lack of playing time during the competition

Ogu, who was part of Nigeria’s squad to the tournament in Russia, did not feature in any of the team’s three group-stage matches as the Super Eagles exited the competition early.

Nigeria’s midfield options at the tournament included the likes of John Obi Mikel, Wilfred Ndidi, Joel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi, and Oghenekaro Etebo.

Speaking on the Home Turf podcast, the 37-year-old midfielder opened up on the circumstances surrounding his limited role, pointing to Rohr’s perception of the Israeli league, where he played at the time, as a key factor.

"I went to the World Cup and I didn't play a game," Ogu said. "We are in the room where we watch football and the coach looked at me and said because we are playing in Israel that our league is not at the top."

"He has already downgraded me because I was coming from the Israeli league. He downgraded me. He said it in our meeting."

Ogu was on the books of Israeli side Hapoel Be’er Sheva during that period, where he enjoyed considerable success domestically. 

However, his club form did not translate into opportunities on the global stage under Rohr.

Despite the setback, Ogu enjoyed a respectable international career, earning 25 caps for Nigeria after making his debut in 2013 in a match against Kenya, where he came on as a substitute for Victor Moses.

Adeyemi Adewale