Super Eagles interim coach, Samson Siasia, says he is not bothered by the choice of Vincent Enyeama and Emmanuel Emenike to stick to their decision to quit the national team.
Enyeama, 33, alongside West Ham striker Emenike, 28, retired from international football October last year after falling out with ex-coach, Sunday Oliseh.
The experienced duo were believed to be under consideration by Siasia for the two-legged tie against Egypt.
But shockingly, the pair turned down the opportunity to stage a comeback to the Eagles and Siasia says he respects their decision.
“You can’t force them to rescind their decision and we have to respect that.” Siasia told BBC Sport.
“I felt they left under a cloudy circumstance. It was only an opportunity for them to reconsider their stance but it appears they’ve both decided to stick by their retirement.”
The 51-year-old tactician stated that in the absence of the two players, other aspiring lads who are ready to give “120 percent” will be considered.
“Nigeria is blessed with talented footballers and we need to work with those players. We have to live away from the past and focus on a promising future.
“This is a big task for us and we want to give our best like those players who are prepared to give 120 percent on the field for their country.”
Nigeria face the Pharaohs of Egypt in an Africa Cup of Nations Group G qualifying games in Kaduna on March 25, then away four days later.
The North Africans currently lead the group with six points from two games, followed by the Eagles with four.
