Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has reportedly shortlisted three Ikorodu City players for possible national team consideration after personally monitoring the club’s Nigeria Premier Football League clash against Wikki Tourists in Lagos.
The Malian tactician was present at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Tuesday as part of his ongoing mission to assess standout home based talents ahead of Nigeria’s squad announcement for the upcoming Unity Cup tournament.
Ikorodu City impressed in the encounter with a convincing 3-1 victory, and three players are understood to have particularly caught Chelle’s attention during the match.
Goalkeeper Michael Atata delivered another composed performance between the sticks to continue what has been a remarkable campaign for the NPFL side. The shot stopper has emerged as one of the league’s most reliable goalkeepers this season, recording 16 clean sheets in 31 appearances.
Midfielder Tosin Oyedokun also enhanced his growing reputation with an energetic display in midfield. The versatile playmaker contributed an assist for Ikorodu City’s second goal and impressed with his ability to operate in multiple roles across the middle of the pitch.
Forward Joseph Arumala completed the list after continuing his prolific form in front of goal. The striker converted a first half penalty to take his tally for the season to 13 goals, strengthening his position among the NPFL’s leading scorers.
Chelle has repeatedly stressed his desire to give opportunities to deserving NPFL players, and his recent appearances at league venues across the country underline that commitment. The former Mali coach is expected to include several home based stars in his squad for the 2026 Unity Cup, where Nigeria will face Zimbabwe before a potential meeting with either Jamaica or India.
Since taking charge of the Super Eagles, Chelle has intensified scouting activities within the domestic league in a bid to expand Nigeria’s talent pool ahead of future international competitions.
Ikorodu City themselves have been one of the surprise packages in the NPFL this season following their recent rise to the top flight, with several of their players now attracting wider national attention.
