Shaibu "building new team"

Amadu Shaibu is looking ahead to after the World Cup

Nigeria v Japan
Sunday 7 October 1400gmt, Southampton
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Nigeria's friendly game against Japan on Sunday gives coach Amodu Shaibu a chance to further his plans to rebuild the Super Eagles squad.

Shaibu says he is in the process of creating a new side to take over from the current group of players.

"We are on course for making a team that will take over or mix with the players that will remain from the World Cup."

But that doesn't mean that the changes will only occur after Japan and Korea.

Shaibu appears keen to get some new blood into the Super Eagles side ahead of the Nations Cup in January - using some home-based players tested out on a recent tour of Korea.

"The team that is going to play against Japan is team A, but we need some new players who will beef up the side. The games in Korea helped us identify some players whom we think will be able to break into the side during our preparations for the Nations Cup."

Competition for places

Shaibu is also keen to stamp out complacency, and believes new players will force the regulars to fight harder for their places.

"The important thing is that the players are well-exposed, have played together and that each time they do so the team spirit is very high."

The Nigerian coach is due to arrive in England on Wednesday, and hold one or two training sessions with the players before Sunday's game.

The match will also provide a good indication of the squad for Mali 2002.

"The side that will face Japan on Sunday will predominantly be travelling to Mali 2002, all things being equal", said Shaibu.