'Extremely inexperienced' - Denmark coach admits Chido Obi's U21 call-up is premature

Denmark U21 national team coach Steffen Højer has admitted that it is too early to include Chido Obi in his squad list for the upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Italy this month.

After making three first-team appearances for Manchester United—including debuts in the Premier League and FA Cup—the Nigeria-eligible center forward has earned a swift promotion to Denmark's U21 setup. 

Chido has previously represented Denmark at U16, U17 and U18 level, but this is the first time he has been selected for the U21s.

The 17-year-old is one of three Nigerian players listed for the internationals in March, alongside Sturm Graz midfielder Tochi Chukwuani and Newcastle United forward William Osula.

However, head coach Steffen Højer believes it may be too soon for the young striker, noting that he has limited senior experience despite being talented. 

"It’s actually too early, I would say" Højer told Bold.dk, emphasizing the need for patience. "He’s a very young man who we must integrate calmly."

"Now I hope it's not all about him. First of all, he's a very young man who I would like us to bring into the team with some calm.

"Secondly, he is extremely inexperienced at senior level compared to the other players we have in the team. He has played very little senior football."

If Obi impresses Højer during the March internationals, the Hale End Academy product could be in contention for a spot in the squad for this summer's European U21 Championship in Slovakia. 

The Glostrup native has tallied 18 goals in 31 appearances for Denmark's youth teams.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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