FIFA Clears Bordeaux Star for Algeria

* Top star, Abeid, laments uncertainty in Uyo

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

Algeria was yesterday boosted in its bid to outshine Nigeria on November 12 in a Russia 2018 qualifying fixture in Uyo, after FIFA cleared Bordeaux player Adam Ounas to switch nationality to Algeria.

The 19-year old attacking midfielder had already represented France at U-20 level and was keen to bolster the ranks of the Fennec Foxes by switching his allegiance to his parents’ country of origin.

Bordeaux announced the switch Tuesday via its official Twitter account. The development would inspire Algeria from the prevailing gloom as Ounas became the third player to join them in nationality switch after Yassine Benzia (Lille, France) and Smain Benaceur (Arsenal, England).

The North- Africans are presently blowing cold after the abrupt resignation of coach Milovan Rajevac following the shock triggered by the 0-0 draw at home against Cameroun, which has put added pressure on the team after Nigeria beat Zambia 2-1 in Ndola to top Group B.

Milovan, who was employed six months ago, resigned after only two games in charge, prompting Algerian FA President, Mohamed Roauraoua, to install caretaker coaches and intensify the search for a foreign gaffer.

It is this growing uncertainty that has also made another Algerian player, Mehdi Abeid, to voice concern by acknowledging the effect changing the coaching staff could have on the team.

The Dijon midfielder told French FF News TV that it was difficult to adjust to tactics under a new coach, especially in the middle of a World Cup qualifying test

The former Newcastle player, who has already been invited for the trip to Nigeria, however, noted that he would have to adjust by proving to the new coaches that he is up to the task.

“It is difficult to constantly change coaches, but we have to readjust, to prove to the other coach that you have a place in the team. It is particularly difficult for the team to have changes like that, especially during qualification for the World Cup. This is not something that is easy, It will be tough,’’ Abeid echoed.

However, he said that Algeria would remain focused by taking one game after the other as they know that Russia is still within a touching distance.

‘’We have a good team with great players. For us to do the job, we will have to fight to the end. “