TheCable

Golden Eaglets coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, has confirmed that his players will be spending Christmas in camp as they intensify preparations for the African U-17 championship in Niger Republic.

The Eaglets have been drawn alongside host Niger Republic, Guinea and Zambia for the 11th African U-17 championship. And the ex-international wants to continue preparation for the tournament Nigeria last won in 2007.

“We are not going on Christmas break because we have to keep preparing for the tournament in Niger. We are in a tough group and we must prepare well for the competition if we are to win,” Amuneke said.

“I know some of the players might want to celebrate the Christmas now, but I will say this is not the time for celebrations because there will be enough of that if we win the competition so we have to stay focused now.

“Drawing the hosts, Niger is tough on its own because they will be playing on home soil and will have the support of their home fans.”

The championship will hold from February 15 to March 1, 2015.