Okocha: Neymar/Cavani rivalry ‘healthy’ for PSG

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Paris Saint-Germain's Uruguayan forward Edinson Cavani (L) and Paris Saint-Germain's Brazilian forward Neymar react during the French Ligue 1 football match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Lyon (OL) at the Parc des Princes stadium in Paris. / AFP PHOTO / FRANCK FIFEFRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images

Ex-Nigerian footballer, Jay-Jay Okocha believes the tension and rivalry building between PSG’s Neymar and Cavani is ‘healthy’.

Okocha played for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) between 1998 and 2002.

He believes the two forwards should be left to sort things out on their own.

In recent weeks, Edison Cavani and his new teammate, Neymar jnr have been seen to have disagreements on the field of play due to set-piece duties. The latest of these was a battle between the two during the 2-0 win against Lyon.

PSG failed to continue their winning streak, after they were held to a goalless draw against Montepellier. Neymar was omitted from the starting lineup due to a foot injury.

Okocha believes the two players can help push each other to greater heights.

He said when he and Ronaldinho were on free-kick duties at Parc des Princes, they simply took turns.

“It’s healthy competition. It’s always good to have more than one player who can take free-kicks or penalties” He said.

“It happens in almost every team. You just have to negotiate and say: ‘You take the first one, I take the second one.”

“It’s all about the team and winning matches. It can be negotiated. Each player has got his best spot, so you know that if it’s in that area, you’re definitely taking it.”

“And if it’s in a neutral area, whoever feels good can take it” He said in an interview with AFP in London on Friday.

Speaking concerning the FIFA Men’s Player Award, Okocha believes Neymar’s move to Paris will help the 25-year-old Brazilian in his quest to surpassing Ronaldo and Messi.

“He’s not too far. It’s all about competing, believing in himself and consistency,” said Okocha.

“He took a bold decision to move, but now he can be his own man and he can show the world that he has what it takes to be the best.”

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