Seattle Sounders striker, Obafemi Martins was impressive in Thursday morning’s training session of the Nigerian national team as the African champions intensified preparations for the 2014 Fifa World Cup qualifier against Kenya.
The session which lasted an hour and 20 minutes at the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar commenced at 8am with head coach, Stephen Keshi moderating alongside assistants, Daniel Amokachi, Valerie Houandinou and goalkeeper trainer, Ike Shorunmu.
The session commenced with emphasis on long distance passing and predictably, Chelsea midfielder, Mikel shone brightest with pin-point accurate distribution.
Keshi then proceeded to split the players into two groups for a 11-a-side game with the likes of Austin Ejide, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Ahmed Musa, Michael Babatunde squaring up against Vincent Enyeama’s side that included Brown Ideye, Sunday Mba, Mikel, Kenneth Omeruo, Victor Moses, Ogenyi Onazi and Martins.
Martins wowed the spectators who turned out to see the session with his pace and movement which was crowned with a lovely goal that left Ejide with little chance.
Only goalkeeper, Chigozie Agbim failed to take part in this round of the session.
The coach then drilled the players on wing play and finishing with Mikel woeful in front of goal much to the amusement of the spectators.
Free kicks were also practised as the players gave their all in the session.
Keshi expressed delight with the work of the lads and expressed hope that they will replicate their form on matchday. “I am very impressed with what the boys have done so far. I am impressed with the state of their fitness too. Hopefully, they will deliver on Saturday,” Keshi told supersport.com.