He further pointed to the lack of preparation time during international windows as a key factor affecting Onuachu’s performances with the Super Eagles. Lawal noted that, unlike at club level where players benefit from regular training and consistent minutes, the national team setup demands immediate impact.

“At club level, you have the luxury of time and consistent minutes to find your rhythm. With the national team, you don’t have time to gel; you might only get two or three sessions before a match,” he said.

“If you don’t produce instantly, you risk being dropped. At a club, you have the luxury of time and consistent minutes to find your rhythm.”

Despite his international struggles, Lawal praised Onuachu’s qualities and his effectiveness in Turkey, where he has become the focal point of Trabzonspor’s attack. Standing at 6ft 7in, the striker has used his physical presence to dominate defenders, a contrast to his difficult spell at Southampton.

Lawal added that the striker’s current form could open doors for future opportunities, stating, “If he decides to move on, this current form will serve him well.”

While calls have grown for coach Eric Chelle to hand Onuachu a more prominent role, Lawal’s assessment suggests that the striker’s challenges at international level are rooted more in structure and timing than ability, as Nigeria continue to seek consistency in attack.