Francis Uzoho
Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho is canvassing for support for any chosen goalie that will stand in for Nigeria during matches npflupdates.com reports.
Francis Uzoho is making call after he received a lot of backlash from Super Eagles supporters for his blunder against Saudi Arabia last Friday. On Friday, Uzoho howled a harmless free-kick into his own net to gift Saudi Arabia a goal during an international friendly game.
Also read:“Match-Rusty” Francis Uzoho In S’Eagles Squad For Saudi Arabia Friendly: Analyst Reacts
And that’s not the first time the 24-year-old has been found wanting when in action for Nigeria. Against Algeria in Oran some months ago, Uzoho had allowed a shot from about 30-yards get pass him; and Nigerians criticised that particular move.
More sadly was when he beaten from outside the box by Ghana’s Thomas Partey during a FIFA world cup qualifier fixture in Abuja last year. Since after the retirement of former goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, Nigeria has find a herculean task in finding a perfect replacement.
Speaking ahead of the Mozambique friendly on Monday, Uzoho confessed his mistake against Saudi Arabia. And went ahead to state he ought to have done better, to help his team secure its first win in about fifteen international friendly games.
Francis Uzoho talks about his goalkeeping position, canvasses for support
“Generally it was a good game for us, but the result didn’t reflect our performance,” he said ahead of the Super Eagles friendly against Mozambique.
“I should have done better with that situation (fumble that led to the goal from a free kick).
“We make mistakes, but we learn from our mistakes.”
Also read: Francis Uzoho : Next Time I Need To Train Him Better – Jose
Speaking further he said, “my position is a big position. And that position makes mistakes.
“You can make 10 saves, control your area well, and one mistake, one can forget all that.”
And while calling for support to any goalkeeper found worthy of being in Super Eagles goal, the Omonia Nicosia goalie said, “We try our best to do well, the fans should keep supporting whoever is in goal, they could be more supportive.”
Speaking in defense of the former Golden Eaglets player, head coach Jose Peseiro said it was his fault Uzoho failed to live up to expectations.
According to the Portuguese tactician, goalkeepers are not comfortable playing for Nigeria.
Peseiro speaks about Super Eagles goalkeeping department
“When I arrived here, I remember I was told to change the goalkeeper. I spoke with all of them, No one feels comfortable because everybody attacked them,” Peseiro said.
“I like our players, when they make mistakes it is my responsibility.
Also read: AFCON: I’m Ready For Guinea-Bissau – Uzoho Cries From Cyprus
“The goalkeepers never play free or calm because of the people. I don’t know why they attack the goalkeepers every time.”
He continued, “Why don’t they attack the strikers when they lose the ball or miss a goal, why?”
He added, “They could make mistakes, it is my responsibility. Next time I need to train him (Uzoho) better.”
