‘That is what he brings to the team’ - Chelle reveals Moses Simon’s importance in the Super Eagles

Despite often being second to Ademola Lookman in the pecking order during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Simon's value to the squad remains high. 

The former Nantes star, who joined Paris FC, started two matches in the tournament held in Morocco: the group stage fixture against Uganda and the third-place playoff versus Egypt, where Chelle rotated his squad.

With 23 Africa Cup of Nations appearances, Moses Simon is one of Nigeria's most experienced players in the tournament's history, surpassed only by legends like Joseph Yobo (29), Nwankwo Kanu (27), Vincent Enyeama (24), Rashidi Yekini (24), and current teammate Alex Iwobi (24).

Speaking to RMC Sport's 'After Foot' program, Chelle detailed Simon's technical skills and tactical importance to the Super Eagles' system.

"Moses Simon is a powerful left winger; that is what he brings to the team," Chelle stated. "He is good in 1v1 and 2v2 situations. In Nigeria, we often play with a diamond. 

“When we drop deeper, we switch to a flat 4-4-2 or a 4-2-3-1, and he often gives us stability on the wing and width in our play."

The coach further explained how Simon, along with fellow wingers Samuel Chukwueze and Chidera Ejuke, is crucial for breaking down compact defenses.

"When you play through the wings, the opposition’s block shifts inside, and then you can stretch the play back out wide with Simon, Chukwueze or Ejuke," he added.

"I watched some Paris FC matches at the beginning of the season. He had a good start when he arrived," Chelle observed. 

"When he played at Nantes, the play was often directed towards him. The game plan was to move the ball to the wings and put Moses Simon in 1v1 situations. 

“At a new club, there is a different philosophy, where he has to move more centrally before receiving the ball. It is a bit complicated."

Despite the challenges at the club level, Chelle concluded with a firm endorsement of the winger's national team duties: "I am happy with what he is doing for the national team."