Augustine Eguaveon has denied reports he only played Rangers star Calvin Bassey in their World Cup qualifying defeat because he was ordered to by his bosses.
And the sacked former Nigeria boss has lifted the lid on the real reasons why he started the Gers full-back.
Ibrox defender Bassey was a surprise starter for the second leg of the Super Eagles' elimination to Ghana last week. Which meant they miss out on the Qatar World Cup this winter.
Eguaveon and his entire coaching team were sacked immediately after the game, after fans rioted on the pitch.
Now he's been forced to deny allegations that Nigerian FA chiefs forced him to play UK-based pair Bassey and Watford star Emmanuel Dennis.
"I've read the stories that I was ordered to play Bassey and Dennis by the Nigerian FA. It couldn't be further from the truth", Eguaveon said.
"The truth is Calvin Bassey started because he did well in the first leg when he replaced Zaidu Sanusi. He deserved to start in the next game.
"The only people I discussed selections with were my backroom staff. They gave me their own selections too and I slept on it and made my decision on the day of the game.
"Calvin Bassey has been doing well at Rangers and Emmanuel Dennis has impressed at Watford.
"I stand by my decision to use both of them."
