Former Super Eagles midfielder, Edema Fuludu, has slammed critics of the inclusion of Ahmed Musa in Nigeria's coming 2026 World Cup qualifier games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Fuludu gave his opinion following criticism directed at the Nigeria Football Federation after news surfaced of Musa's inclusion in the Supre Eagles squad for the games.

Musa is Nigeria’s most-capped player with 110 appearances and 18 goals, including four at the World Cup.

He recently ended his contracted with a Turkish side last year before returning to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) where he plays for Kano Pillars.

Despite his age, new Coach Eric Chelle is reported to have named him in the squad for the qualifiers, leading to criticisms.

Reacting, Fuludu said, “The Super Eagles are in dire need of results to put our World Cup campaign back on track, and I feel someone like Ahmed Musa has a crucial role to play. Many Nigerians are super stars when it comes to football, and I always feel sad when some people jump to conclusion that players are too old to play for the national team.

“If Ahmed Musa can come back to play in the Nigerian league, and stabilise Kano Pillars on the table, there is nothing wrong in including him in Super Eagles squad for the World Cup qualifiers. We have seen situations, where older players became saviours for many teams in tight situations. We all know Ahmed Musa as one of the most dedicated players to play for the national team. After all, he has not officially announced his retirement from international football. I feel he still has a role to play in the Super Eagles if the coach wants him.”