Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi has charged his players to battle their way into being nominated for the next edition of the African Footballer of the Year award.The Nigerian manager expressed disappointment at having none of his countrymen in the shortlist for the 2011 event.Keshi told SuperSport.com on Thursday that he has spoken with the players about his expectations.He said, "Im disappointed that no Nigerian is nominated for the award. We talked about it before the games against Botswana and Zambia. And I will continue to remind them about it."Ive told them that as my players I want to see them up their games and worm their way into the hearts of not just Nigerian fans but fans all over the world. For me this is unacceptable and things must change."Keshi attributed the blackout of Nigerians in the award to players mentality of being content with earning millions rather than achieving greatness through winning teams and individual honours."I remember in 1988 I was nominated as fourth best in Africa and then as a defender. In 2005 I won the best coach award on the continent, and I think in 2009 I got an award as a legend. At that particular award I was shocked that no Nigerian was mentioned except me. Its over 10 years and no Nigerian has come close to winning it. This is not right."As coach of Mali I remember Frederic Kanoute and Seydou Keita were nominated. Kanoute won the award that year. If any player in this team is willing to win things then we are ready to help and work with such a player. As a footballer you must make sacrifices to win things."Seriously, the situation has nothing to do with psychology but the attitude of the players to the game. If as a player you give 100 percent in every game then you will be part of those nominated like we have the Ghanaians and Ivorians dominating now," he said.
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