Keshi Explains Comments On IK Uche…I Did Not Shut Him Out’…Eagles Bubble Into Khartoum
Super Eagles Coach, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi was livid with rage when he read reports credited to him to the effect that he has shut the Super Eagles permanently against Villareal of Spain striker, Ikechukwu Uche.
Clarifying what he said at Wednesday’s media parley in Abuja, Keshi said for the umpteenth time what he said was that he will not beg Uche to play for Nigeria, especially when there are other players who are willing and ready at all times to play for the Super Eagles.
“I don’t know where they got that portion of their reports from, but I never said Uche won’t play as long as I remain coach of the team. In the near future if he changes his mind and indicates interest to play he will be considered on merit”.
He urged the media not to sensationalise the Ike Uche issue as it will not help resolve anything. “We have to help all our players grow so that we can all build a strong national team and the media is a partner in this regard. He said he does not have anything personal against the Villareal striker but will not force to play for Nigeria against his will.
The Super Eagles arrived Khartoum, the Sudanese capital early morning on Friday, at about 6am local time and 4am in Nigeria aboard Sudan Airways for the crucial Nations Cup qualifier game against the Sudanese national team. Reception from the Sudan Immigration was smooth while a handful of Nigerians were outside cheering the team. After airport formalities, the team was driven to nearby Grand Holiday Inn, where it will stay for two nights.
NFF Vice President, Barr Seyi Akinwunmi led the team to Sudan, with NFF Director, Technical , Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme and other secretariat staff intow.
Also visible on the entourage is the President General of the Nigeria and Other Sports Supporters Club, Dr Rauf Ladipo. He came as usual with his team to cheer the Eagles to victory and he started doing that right from the airport.
Tomorrow’s match is scheduled for 8pm local time that’s 6pm Nigeria time and the Eagles are scheduled to have a feel of the Khartoum Stadium, same time today.
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