Ex-Super Eagles coach, Samson Siasia has seen some positives in captain Mikel Obi’s inability to play against Poland and Serbia in the two international friendly games.
He said Mikel’s absence will help coach Gernot Rohr to try other players in his position.
He said the unavailability of the China-based star does not matter much since there are other friendly matches before the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Mikel could not feature in the two friendly matches due to travelling documents renewal.
Siasia told CSN, “It is unfortunate that Mikel will not able to travel to London for the match against Serbia having missed the Poland match.
“We all know his influence and what he can do in the team but the fact that he is not available will give the coach the opportunity to try other players in the position.
“There are many players in the camp and I believe we still have more friendly matches to play before the World Cup which he will definitely be part of.”
On the 1-0 win against Poland, he added, “The match against Poland was not bad, the Super Eagles played well and with that, I am sure they will keep improving but they need more understanding to get it right.”
After Tuesday’s game against Serbia, Nigeria will play another friendly against Congo DR in May before facing England and Czech Republic.