‘Ethiopia Saviour’ eyes Eagles

The Nigeria job is now vacant after Samson Siasia was fired Friday for failing to qualify for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations. Saintfiet told MTNFootball.com on yesterday that the Super Eagles job was the dream of every coach on the continent. “If Nigeria are interested in me I would be very much interested in […]

The Nigeria job is now vacant after Samson Siasia was fired Friday for failing to qualify for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Saintfiet told MTNFootball.com on yesterday that the Super Eagles job was the dream of every coach on the continent.

“If Nigeria are interested in me I would be very much interested in the job,” Saintfiet said.

Saintfiet is no stranger to the Super Eagles after holding them to a 2-2 draw on June 5 in Addis Ababa while in charge of Ethiopia in a 2012 Africa Cup Group B qualifier.

“I think they saw my potential when Ethiopia drew 2-2. I am ready,” said the 38-year-old Belgian, who reportedly first applied for the Eagles job two years ago.

“You see, a foreign coach who must coach a big team like Nigeria or any big African team must have a strong knowledge and background of the culture and game on the continent.

“I think I have those attributes from my years working in Namibia and Ethiopia, and now Nigeria must do the same.

“But I know Nigeria have other options and I have other options, but let’s see what happens.”

Meanwhile, Saintfiet said he has enjoyed his last five months in charge as Ethiopia coach that ended after October 8 in the Walya Antelopes last Group B game against Madagascar that finished 4-2 in favour of the hosts in Addis Ababa.

“I enjoyed my cooperation with players and staff. However, despite the many positives, some agreements were not honoured and that is the reason for this decision,” he said.

Ethiopia finished third in Group B on 7 points, seven behind pool winners Guinea.