Former Nigeria international Dimeji Lawal has called on Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to include deserving Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) players in his squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Since taking charge, Chelle has visited several NPFL venues to monitor domestic talent, a move that has been widely praised. Softfootball understands Lawal believes those scouting trips should result in opportunities for outstanding local players to prove themselves on the international stage.
According to the former winger, while the squad is expected to be dominated by Europe-based stars, there is still room for a handful of NPFL players capable of making a meaningful impact. He argued that home-based players have previously contributed positively to the national team and deserve another chance.
Lawal described the matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe as must-win encounters but insisted Chelle should not overlook the quality available in the domestic league.
There is nothing wrong if the coach decides to trust them,
he said, expressing confidence that selected NPFL players would seize the opportunity and strengthen Nigeria’s push for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
