By Desmond EKWUEME
Since the era of “Golden Boy” Henry Nwosu (MON) in AFCON ’80 till the present AFCON tournament, arguably Joe Aribo is the only Nigerian player who didn’t or haven’t made impact in or with jersey No. 10.
Etim Esin, Friday Ekpo, Austin Okocha, John Obi Mikel among others donned this revered shirt in major tournaments and left find positive memories for many to remember.
It is either the shirt number is too big for Joe Aribo to wear or he has simply failed to be the traditional No. 10 for Nigeria.
No. 10 here is always skillful, ball holder, ball passer, playmaker and most times very creative. Aribo has not shown these qualities so far in this tournament.
Perhaps Jose Peseiro didn’t instruct him to operate like the a traditional Nigerian No. 10. But should he be asked to play so if he possesses the qualities?
Many even wondered the role he often plays for or in the Super Eagles before the tournament. Peseiro may need to assign and define a new role to or for Aribo who so far has appeared anonymous if not lost in this tournament.