FORMER Super Eagles striker, Jonathan Akpoborie has refused to be swayed by general euphoria among Nigerians over zthe 44-man list released by new coach of the side, Lars Lagerback.

Akpoborie in an interview with brilafm.net noted that the list was not solely Lagerback’s idea and insisted that the manner of the Swede’s appointment remains a flaw.

“Is he actually the one who submitted the list, or is it the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) who took all the choices? I said it before that I would have preferred (Sven Goran) Eriksson in charge of our team.

“I know he would not do it this way. This time, I know they are the ones in charge. But, we just have to support them to make the team succeed at the World Cup,” he said.

Meanwhile, Portsmouth of England striker, John Chukwudi Utaka has pledged to justify his recall to the squad.

Utaka said that Nigeria is endowed with talented players who can take the world by surprise, and expressed hope that he would contribute his own quota towards success for the team in South Africa.

“I will answer the national call whenever I am called. I really feel good to be back and I am looking forward to joining the guys again.

“I am happy and I have no doubt that Nigeria will do well at the World Cup.” Utaka said.

Also TSG Hoffenheim of Germany striker, Chinedu Ogbuke Obasi has hailed his latest invitation by Super Eagles handler, Lars Lagerback, and confessed that it is the best thing for his career.

The former Lyn Oslo of Norway star declared further in an interview with brilafm.net that it is a confirmation of the hard work he has put into his game, and says he is eager to hook up with other invited players on April 28 in London.

“I feel honoured to be invited again. I feel happy that the coach looked in my direction and I look forward to working with the team again.

“It will be very interesting outing for him and for us then players. I believe we can all join our efforts together and it will be an interesting outing for him and the country,” said the all-action attacker fondly called Edu.