By Johnny Edward:
Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr has explained why Hibernian FC defender, Efe Ambrose has been overlooked from his team since he took charge two years ago, reports Completesportsnigeria.com.
Ambrose has been Nigeria’s most consistent defender in Europe this season having featured in all Hibernian FC’s 17 games in all competitions this season.
In a chat with CSN, Rohr admitted that Ambrose was a valuable option but he has five quality defenders in his team who have been playing well.
“He’s a good player and we are monitoring him,” Rohr told CSN.
“At the moment, we have five good defenders who are doing well in the team and he will only get his chance when one loses his form.”
Rohr will soon name his 23 man squad for next month’s 2019 Africa Cup Of Nations qualifier against South Africa at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg and the 30 year old may not be included.
Meanwhile, Rohr says the three time African champions will be seeking to avenge a 2-0 home loss against South Africa.
The Bafana Bafana recorded their first ever competitive game win over Nigeria in June 2017 when they won 2-0 in Uyo.
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The two teams clash again on November 17 in Johannesburg with Nigeria needing a win to qualify for Cameroon 2019 with a game to spare.
“The defeat still hurts and we want to take revenge for it,” the coach told Kick-Off Magazine.
“They beat us with strong counter attacks in Uyo. We dominated the game and actually played quite well in the first half, but didn’t score.”
“And then they attacked us on the counter, one towards the end when we pressed for the equaliser.”
Rohr continued: “It was in June 2017, which is now quite a long time ago.
“I remember we had many players absent at the time, with that match taking place in the break between the seasons.
“I’m happy that everyone will be available this time around and that our team can get revenge for that defeat.”