Former Super Eagles manager Stephen Keshi has thrown a parting shot at Nigerian football, saying the country should stop seeing itself as a serious football nation because it was still lagging behind in many vital areas needed to attain such levels.
The former Togo and former Mali manager noted, for instance, that but for his intervention, the Akwa Ibom State governor was planning to lay artificial grass on the newly built world-class Uyo Stadium. That venue will host the decisive clash of the Super Eagles with South Africa next month.
"How many good pitches do we have in this country? Keshi queried. We say we are a football nation and we don't even have good training pitches for the national team, or good field to play on. Instead, there are artificial pitches everywhere, even the new Stadium in Uyo.
It was when I heard from the governor that they wanted to use artificial pitch that I had to shout and tell him no way. That is how they used natural grass pitch there. But why should I be the one to say it? Where are the journalists?"
He said he was proud of his achievements during his spell as Nigeria's manager.
"People keep saying I drew a lot of matches. But how many Nigerian coaches agreed to play friendly matches all the time or to use home-based players without fear? But people don't see that. Every time it's Keshi this and Keshi that. Then they say I always try to use the President against them. President that I cannot even see!"
He also said he was happy that the drama was finally over, as was his family.
"I am not bitter. I'm just disappointed in some of you," he pointed out, referring to journalists. "Now people can stop talking about Keshi." Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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Mumu. Those players you allegedly collect egunje to feature will not give you dollars again. If you like talk rubbish till tomorrow,you have been sacked. for taking Nigeria football to a new low. Big Boss ko! Big Boss Ni!. You be Coach.kick and follow coach a bi!
ReplyDeleteWhat evidence do you have that he collects egunje from players? Nigerians and their blabbing. Passing unfounded rumours and conjectures as fact. Wake up cos na you be the mumu. And I don't even like Keshi particularly. Mschewww
ReplyDelete"Allegedly" ENG 101
DeleteWhy did you not bring up these points about artificial pitches before now? This is just medicine after death.. and it is too late to cry when the head is off!
ReplyDelete