Uche Nwofor and Christian Pyagbara defended after firing blank on Enugu Rangers debut

Gbenga Ogunbote has defended Uche Nwofor and Christian Pyagbara who struggled to make an impression against Wikki Tourist.

The former Super Eagles men joined the six-time Nigerian kings in April - Nwofor as a free agent, while Pyagbara moved in from the reigning Federation Cup champions Akwa United.

Substitute Nwofor came on in the 75th minute as a replacement for fellow debutant Pyagbara as both forwards failed to find the back of the net against the Giant Elephants last Sunday.

And Ogunbote has appealed for patience with the duo as he backed the 'big names' to come good with time.

"It is too early to discuss the performance [of Uche Nwofor and Christian Pygbara]," Ogunbote told media.

"I think it is because they are two big names in the Nigerian league. I want to believe that as they play games they will get back to their real forms and will be able to give us what we need. 

"They are actually plus to the team but they are yet to get their right elements. I know match after match they will be about to grow with the team and see how we play, then the positives will be seen."