Amidst the uncertainty following Jose Peseiro’s departure as Nigeria coach, this month’s friendlies represented an opportunity for erstwhile assistant Finidi George to stake a claim for the national team job.

The Enyimba coach is, according to reports, one of as many as 30 applicants for the Super Eagles role on a full-time basis.

The 52-year-old was placed in charge for games against Ghana and Mali, with the view that a good pair of results would bolster the former international’s chances.

The outcomes in Morocco, however, were mixed – with the 2-1 win over the Black Stars followed by a 2-0 defeat by Mali.

Public reaction swung from positive to negative over the space of four days, with critics saying George is not ready for the top job.

However, veteran defender Kenneth Omeruo is keen for the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner to be handed the reins.

“One difference is he wants us to play good football and I like that,” the 30-year-old told BBC Sport Africa.

“I actually think he knows what he is doing, and he deserves to be given the job.”