Former Nigeria and Arsenal striker Kanu is confident that a rejuvenated Peter Odemwingie will make his mark at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and subsequently prove a lot of doubters wrong.
The Stoke City striker was named in Stephen Keshi's 30-man provisional World Cup squad, ending a near two-year absence from the Nigerian national setup.
Talking to AfricanFootball.com, Kanu explained that he was happy to see Osaze back in the Nigerian squad.
The 32-year-old has again found his scoring touch in front of goal after joining the Potters in January following a short spell with Cardiff City.
"We need everybody, the team is open. He [Osaze] is a great player, he has great qualities and we are happy that he is flying, that is what we need," said Kanu.
"That is why he has been called, we want him to do the same in the World Cup and Keshi knows that.
"Right now, Osaze, when I talk to him, I will tell him he will make a mark, he will prove a lot of people wrong and make sure he does something special in the World Cup.”
Kanu highlighted the importance of player-coach relations to the squad and hopes Odemwingie and Keshi's problems stay in the past.
The pair have recently patched up a frosty relationship and Kanu has urged the players to respect the head coach.
"The only thing is that they have issues, they have to sort it out. The players have to respect the coach, it the respect is there the coach has to give back to the player," Kanu added.
The Super Eagles were drawn in Group F alongside Argentina, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Iran.
Osaze scored five goals in 15 appearances for Stoke.Source: Africanfootball.com
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