Gernot Rohr had hinted during Tuesday's pre-match press conference that Glasgow Rangers star Joe Aribo was set to make his competitive debut for the Super Eagles against Benin, provided he proved his fitness in the team's final workout ahead of yesterday's Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo.
The Super Eagles number 10 informed Rohr that he was in tiptop condition in the hours leading up to the game at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, hence the German football tactician had no choice but to hand a competitive debut to the versatile midfielder, with his proud dad watching on from the stands.
Speaking to reporters, including allnigeriasoccer.com, on Wednesday evening, Rohr explained why he fielded Aribo from the very beginning of the match : ''We spoke this morning and he told me that he recovered well from the night flight he had from London, from his game on Sunday.
''I have confidence in my players when they tell me I am ready so I make them play, especially for him his father was here.
''It was the first time or the second time only in his country so it was very important for him to play this first (competitive) match with the Super Eagles''.
''I have confidence in my players when they tell me I am ready so I make them play, especially for him his father was here.
''It was the first time or the second time only in his country so it was very important for him to play this first (competitive) match with the Super Eagles''.
Following his maiden competitive game, Aribo has become the third player in the current Super Eagles squad previously eligible to represent England now cap-tied to Nigeria, after Alex Iwobi and Ola Aina.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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