Thread by @TheOddSolace

If Gernot Rohr has actually watched Rotherham's games extensively, and has decided on the basis of them that Semi Ajayi is a viable option in midfield for the Super Eagles, then I give up.

Semi Ajayi completes 15.3(!) passes per game. He plays in midfield

Interceptions: 1.2 pg (well outside top 50 in Ch'ship)
Clearances: 3.8 pg (well outside top 50 in Ch'ship)
Tackles: 1.4 pg (25th in Ch'ship)
Duels: 7.2 pg, a 58% success rate (healthy)
Errors leading to a goal: 3

Let every man draw his own conclusions. I'm only the messenger. Don't shoot.

What I will say is that, if Rohr considers Ajayi an option in midfield, then it becomes even more important that Leon Balogun is not dropped, especially considering that

(a) Mikel has gone AWOL, and
(b) Rohr does not seem to trust Ogu in midfield

Else, if you have defenders who can't pass under pressure, and you also name midfielders who can't pass under pressure ahead of them, then how in the world do you intend to progress the ball into the final third?

"But he scored goals!"

Yeah but, I mean, it's like employing a bodyguard that can cook. It's great if the culinary skill is a bonus, but if you keep getting knifed in the abdomen, all that good food isn't going to be much comfort.