Stephen Keshi, on Friday said he has not shut out Villarreal striker, Ikechukwu Uche, from the team.
The former Super Eagles’ Captain, while Clarifying what he said at Wednesday’s media parley in Abuja, insisted that he will not beg Uche to play for Nigeria, especially when there are other players who are willing and ready at all times to play for the country.
“I don’t know where they got that portion of their reports from, but I never said Uche won’t play as long as I remain coach of the team. In the near future if he changes his mind and indicates interest to play he will be considered on merit,” Keshi told africanFootball.com.
“We have to help all our players grow so that we can all build a strong national team and the media is a partner in this regard.
“I do not have anything personal against the Villarreal striker but will not force him to play for Nigeria against his will,” he said.
He urged the media not to sensationalise the Uche’s issue as it will not help in resolving anything.
