There appears to be an asymmetry in the squad following this rather bizarre decision by Randy Waldrum to replace a marquee centre/defensive midfielder with a centre forward.
Already, I was concerned that the team already houses way too many centre forwards in McCleans, Okoronkwo, Oshoala and Iheuzo. There is a distinct paucity of wingers in the squad in my humble opinion after the head-scratching omission of dazzling winger Rinsola Babajide.
Following the unfortunate unavailability of Ayinde due to injury, I had hoped another midfield-hardened player would have taken her place. But Waldrum has gone for Onumonu.
I guess this is where my bias goes full throttle as I have never been a huge fan of this striker though I have always applauded her flawless professionalism and exceptional work ethics and dedication. But her languid style, limited pace and overall centre forward presentation do not waggle my hound's tail.
And the fact that we now only have 4 natural midfielders in the squad further exacerbates my disapproval of her inclusion.
That said, it is unwise to question the judgement of a serial achiever. Waldrum has taken this Super Falcons outfit to unbelievable heights in World Football with near-flawless World Cup outcome and highly commendable afcon and Olympic qualifications that consistently saw Nigeria overcome ruthless African foes in Cameroon, South Africa and Ghana.
So, one has to conclude that he knows what he is doing. Additionally, accomplished midfielder Regina Otu has been drafted to the Alternate List, if all else fails.
That said, if the Super Falcons falter in the Olympics, this weird choice of centre forward for midfielder will form fertile grounds for grumble against Waldrum
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