Lukman to play key role

Former Nigeria striker Segun Odegbami says Haruna Lukman could play a key role in the World Cup.

Former striker builds up young midfielder

Former Nigeria striker Segun Odegbami says young midfielder Haruna Lukman could play a key role in the World Cup. The Super Eagles have been drawn in Group B for the first ever tournament on African soil this summer, alongside Argentina, South Korea and Greece. Monaco midfielder Lukman, 19, has only managed a handful of caps for his country but has been linked with a number of major European clubs. And Odegbami believes the youngster will play a key role if Nigeria are going to be successful at the showpiece competition. He said: "In him, I can see that we have an emerging midfield general and I must tell you that I would be happy to watch him play again." Nigeria have a point to prove in South Africa after failing to qualify for the last World Cup in Germany. In 1994 and 1998 the Super Eagles made it to the first knockout round, but in 2002 they failed to advance from the group stage.