Laloko against Yobo call-up

Former Nigeria Football Federation technical director Kashimawo Laloko has advised against the inclusion of centre-back Joseph Yobo in the national squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The England-based defender was recalled for the friendly against Mexico by head coach Stephen Keshi but was ruled out by an injury, having not featured since the Super Eagles' 2013 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. Laloko suggested there are options other than the 33-year-old, whom he believes is past his best despite getting glowing reports in his appearances for Norwich City since arriving in January. "I don't see what a person like Yobo is coming to do other than to create records," the former NFF employee told the The Vanguard. "He wants to say he has been to the World Cup three, four times. That is the reason. "Otherwise you look at his ability, his performance, his age, his technical preparation; we have younger players who can play in that position better than him. "At the end of the day Keshi has the final decision. What we should guard against is the pressure of the press and others who are influencing him to begin to force players on him. "But I am sure that Keshi being a good player himself must know what he requires to get a good team," he added.