Head coach of Benin Republic Gernot Rohr has backed Eric Chelle to excel as head coach of Nigeria.

Rohr, who is Nigeria's longest-serving head coach, described the Malian as a good player during his playing career.

The 72-year-old added that he hopes Chelle will gather the needed experience on the job and give confidence to the Super Eagles players.

“I wish all the best to the Super Eagles and Eric Chelle. I knew him; he was a good player,” Rohr told Brila.net.

“Then he started to coach in France with a mid-table team, and later he had the chance to manage Mali, a very good team.

“The experience will come, and I hope he will give confidence to the players, but not against Benin.”

Chelle was officially appointed as head coach of the three-time African champions two weeks ago.

The 47-year-old is expected to lead the Super Eagles to the 2025 AFCON in Morocco later this year.