The Sun News On-line

Former Nigeria skipper, Sunday Oliseh, has endorsed the dismissal of the team’s head coach, Berti Vogts, and urged Nigerians to be ready for the 2010 World Cup.

“Let’s kick these people out now and get our acts together because we must do everything possible to be in the 2010 World Cup. It’s the first time the soccer showpiece will be hosted in Africa and Nigeria must be there,” the former RC Liege of Belgium and Ajax Amsterdam of Holland midfielder said.

The former Juventus star, who told Sports Radio 88.9 Brila FM from London, also counseled the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) to consult experienced ex-internationals before hiring a new handler for the Eagles.

“Next time we want to appoint a foreign coach, experienced former players, who have played in that country should be contacted for advice. Ask people, they will give you details about whoever you want to appoint.

“I played seven years in Germany, Jay Jay Okocha and Taribo West were also there, at least if you want to appoint a German tactician, we can give you information about the person.”
Oliseh also expressed strong reservations over the suitability of a German coach for the Eagles, but pointed out that he would prefer a coach from Holland.

“We have always clamoured for foreign coaches for whatever reason. My opinion is that we should get somebody from Holland because their style of play suits our style, which is very offensive,” said the former VfL Bochum of Germany star.

He also canvassed for recognition of ex-internationals in the new scheme of affairs, saying: “The time has come for us, former players who have played at the highest level and won titles for the country and their clubs to save our country from these constant embarrassments.”
Oliseh went further to counsel Nigerian football fans to take the quarterfinal crash to Ghana in their stride and focus attention on the future.

He said it was painful that the Eagles crashed out after playing their best match in Ghana. “I believe the match against the Black Stars was the Eagles best in the tournament, but unfortunately it ended in defeat.”

He concluded by showering praises on Everton star, Joseph Yobo for his positive attitude in Ghana and commended Danny Shittu for giving a good account of himself in his first big tournament for Nigeria.