Xhaka: Okafor hasn t communicated with the Swiss coach in a year? Sometimes you gotta put your head down and work hard

On the international match day in November, Switzerland will face Sweden and Kosovo. In an interview with "Blick", Swiss captain midfielder Xhaka talked about Okafor's previous criticism of the national team selection. In a previous interview with TA, Okafor bluntly stated that he had not contacted the Swiss head coach for a year and admitted that he could not understand why he continued to be ignored.

Xhaka: "I spoke with Okafor on the phone before his interview. Naturally, we also talked about the national team. For me, it is difficult to comment on this topic without knowing all the details. He has had opportunities at the European Cup and the World Cup. For me, if I was not selected, I would realistically assess the situation: Why was I not selected? Why am I not in the squad?"

"I don't know. It's true that Okafor hasn't been in contact with the manager for a year. I'm just saying that I think it's good to keep in touch. Okafor has a lot of potential, but he hasn't shown it often enough in recent years. His performance at Leeds United is suitable for him. Still, if he can handle things better, he may still play for the national team. Sometimes you need to keep your head down, talk less, and work hard. Including me. In the end, the performance on the court is the most important."

Swiss national team coach Yakin told reporters, "I have spoken to Okafor many times and told him what I expect from him on and off the court. I hope that my words will eventually be conveyed to him. The offensive players must also be measured by goals."

The director of the Swiss national team said that Okafor's public statement was untimely: "This statement is unpopular. The timing is wrong and the method is wrong. If the players have opinions about the coach, they should talk to him directly. You can call and communicate with him at any time. I completely disagree with his approach. He needs to be patient and humble, and most importantly, he must put the team above personal issues. The national team must come first."