When Will Ikorodu United Return Home?

By Amos Joseph

We are approaching mid-season, and teams are beginning to count their fortunes in the 2015/2016 Nigerian Professional League. The League table captured the performance of all the teams involved.

After a convincing win in their week 14 encounter against Heartland FC and a slim loss to Pillars at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, fans of Ikorodu United became optimistic of a turn around in the fortunes of the club.

In their last home game, Ikorodu hosted Plateau United at Onikan Stadium in a midweek encounter with the Lagos side looking really good from kickoff, in fact it seemed like it was going to be a party for Oga boys. The pressure paid off as the home team took the lead to throw the half empty Stadium into a jubilant mood, at least for the few who made their way to the stadium to enjoy and support the team. It really looked like a party! But the visitors were unperturbed.

Unfortunately, the party was disrupted as the visitors struck and drew level to cancel Ikorodu’s lead twice and celebrated their draw at the end of the day.

Although they didn’t get a full capacity, but the few Lagos fans who took time out to see the game gave their support, shouted and cheered the team. Unfortunately, the home team were left disappointed with a 2-2 draw. Some supporters of the club murmured, “Take us to Agege Stadium, we don’t want Onikan”. The question is, are we to blame it on the stadium now?

The newly promoted side was handed an opportunity to play inside Agege Stadium against visiting Heartland on their 13th league match which ended 3-1 in their favour. Come to think of it, it was their own choice (club management) to adopt Onikan stadium as home ground upon their arrival in the top division.

As it stands, the club is rooted to the bottom of the log with just 10 points from 17 league games (2 wins, 4 draws and 11 Losses ). If nothing changes in a short while, they may return to the NNL. It is also important to mention that they had an awful outing in the Nigeria National League (NNL) Super Four, although it is sometimes difficult to judge a team based on its performance in pre-season. But could this be the case for this team as their performance sometime is questionable as to whether they had a pre-season as a team?

It is no time for blame game though, but it would be nice to examine, to review the season so far and plan towards the second half to avoid the looming relegation. The fans have clamoured to be taken to Agege Stadium to prosecute league games. Is it really an issue of the ground or how the team has fared in their outings?

On technical grounds, the team changed handlers in week 7 as Sam Okpodu took over as head coach. For a breakdown, the club’s first 10 league matches (2 home losses, 2 home draws, 5 away losses and just 1 win at home) and the next seven (2 home draws, 4 away loses, and 1 famous home win at Agege. Imagine if the club had been able to secure wins in their home games on If only they could secure home wins at least, it would have boost and helped their campaign.

Frankly speaking, this side lacks depth to grind result when it mattered. A check on the games they drew and some of the losses on home soil shows they were not just convincing enough! Can we say it is a matter of experience? May be the team management needs to consider reshuffling the squad when the window opens in mid season, and if it also deems it fit to test another ground, I think the League Management Company is ever willing to assist teams who have cogent reasons to change home grounds. Do they have one?

Culled from pageone.ng

Transfer: Manchester United, Chelsea and other busy EPLClubs on Deadline Day

Premier League

Anthony Martial made a move Monaco to Manchester United (£36m)

Chelsea splashed (£2.7m) on Nantes' Papy Djilobodji

Virgil Van Djik switched from Celtic to Southampton (£11.5m)

Ramiro Funes Mori - River Plate to Everton (£9.5m)

Michail Antonio - Nottingham Forest to West Ham (£7m)

Glenn Murray-  Crystal Palace to Bournemouth (£4m)

Nikica Jelavic - Hull City to West Ham (£2m, rising to £3m)

Joleon Lescott moved from West Brom to Aston Villa (£2m)

Regan Poole - Newport County to Manchester United (£100,000 rising to £500,000)

Aaron Lennon - Tottenham to Everton (undisclosed)

Michael Hector - Reading to Chelsea (undisclosed)

Obbi Oulare - Club Brugge to Watford (undisclosed)

Adlene Guediora - Crystal Palace to Watford (undisclosed)

Matija Sarkic - Anderlecht to Aston Villa (undisclosed)

DeAndre Yedlin - Tottenham to Sunderland (season loan)

Victor Ibarbo - Roma to Watford (season loan)

Alex Song - Barcelona to West Ham (season loan)

Victor Moses - Chelsea to West Ham (season loan)

Nathan Dyer - Swansea City to Leicester City (season loan)

Tiago Ilori - Liverpool to Aston Villa (season loan)

Matt Jarvis - West Ham to Norwich City (season loan)

Tomas Andrade - River Plate to Bournemouth (season loan)

Joe Bennett - Aston Villa to Bournemouth (loan until January)

Miguel Layun - Watford to Porto (season loan)

Olivier Kemen - Newcastle to Lyon (undisclosed)

Sam Westley - West Ham to VVV Venlo (season loan)

Dwight Tiendalli - released by Swansea City

Source: Skysports

Coach Sunday Oliseh's 18 Foreign Pros that got People Talking

The likes of John Obi Mikel, Victor Moses and Odion Jude Ighalo have been exempted from the 18-man foreign professionals invited by Super Eagles’ Head Coach Sunday Oliseh for next month’s 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania in Dar es Salaam.

Skipper Vincent Enyeama tops the list that has defenders Godfrey Oboabona, Leon Balogun and Kenneth Omeruo, midfielders Rabiu Ibrahim, Lukman Haruna and Joel Obi, and forwards Ahmed Musa, Emmanuel Emenike and Anthony Ujah.

There are a number of surprises, in line with Oliseh’s earlier pledge to make current form and first –level football key indices for selection to the Super Eagles.

There are goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, midfielder Izunna Ernest Uzochukwu and forwards Emem Eduok, Sylvester Igboun and Moses Simon.

All the 18 players, who will join up with the 23 home boys who arrived camp in Abuja on Monday, are expected in Abuja on Monday, 31st August, 2015 at the latest.

The Super Eagles take on Tanzania in Dar es Salaam on Saturday, September 5.

THE FULL LIST

Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Lille OSC, France); Carl Ikeme (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England)

Defenders: Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Kingsley Madu (AS Trencin, Slovakia); Godfrey Oboabona (Caykur Rizespor, Turkey); William Troost Ekong (FK Haugesund, Norway); Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa SK, Turkey)

Midfielders: Joel Obi (Torina FC, Italy); Izunna Ernest Uzochukwu (FC Amkar Perm, Russia); Obiora Nwankwo (Coimbra FC, Portugal); Lukman Haruna (Anzhi Machatsjkala, Russia); Rabiu Ibrahim (AS Trencin, Slovakia)

Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Emem Eduok (Esperance ST, Tunisia); Emmanuel Emenike (Al Ain, UAE); Anthony Ujah (Werder Bremen, Germany); Sylvester Igboun (FC UFA, Russia); Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium)

You think footballers earn too much $£€¥ ?

Yes. That thing dripping isn't water, it is called sweat.

@Forza_sports shared the image on Instagram.

For me it's #Hardwork #Sweat #EarnBig #Talent and #Grace

New Eagles Coach Sunday Oliseh's message to Nigerians and intending players at large

Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Ogorchukwu Oliseh has sent out a clear message to Nigerians upon assumption of office as head coach of the nation's senior team.

During his unveiling in Abuja, Oliseh mentioned that he has come with an intention of service and not to wage war against his employers or anyone.

"I have come to serve, and the NFF has promised to give me all the support I need to succeed, he said at the media presentation.

"They are the employers and I am the employee. That distinction has to be appreciated at all times.

''I have had meetings with members of the Technical and Development Committee, led by Chief Anyansi-Agwu, very knowledgeable people all. I have met members of the Executive Committeeand the General Secretary. I believe we will all work together excellently. It is a huge honour to be Head Coach of Nigeria.''

Regarding the issue of selecting players who will represent the country, the new man who replaced Stephen Keshi warned that players who ply their trades in lower leagues around the world have no place in his squad with exception to underaged players.

"If you are not playing  in first division in anywhere in the world and in Nigeria, you cannot play for the Super Eagles henceforth.''

''However players coming from the under-aged teams are the only exception to this rule."

Speaking further,  ''It’s a great honour to be a coach of this nation, - he said.

''First of all, I am not coming as a Messiah. I am not coming as a man who can single handedly turn Nigeria to Germany.

''I am coming in to do my best and give if possible 150% all the time.

''The state we are now in Nigeria I think we are all not happy with. Gone are the days we have individual players who can single handedly win a match for you. But we have the potentials and that is our belief and the players must know that it’s an honour to be invited to the national team.''

INTERVIEW: Foreign Pros disrupted our World Cup Dreams - Ifeanyi Ifeanyi

Ifeanyi Ifeanyi was one of the key players in the Manu Garba led Flying Eagles team that represented the country at the African Youth Championship and the recently concluded FIFA World Youth Championship in New Zealand. The defensive midfielder in this interview with Amos Joseph shares his ''memorable experience'' and painful exit at the world stage.

Question: You were at the African Youth Championship and also made the team that went to the FIFA World Cup in New Zealand, how will you describe the experience?

It was an awesome experience I must say. Being at the African Championship alone was a great thing for me and my career, I thought it was the ultimate until i got to the world cup and realized that it's a different ball game. From the environment, pitches, weather and the teams that were involved it was just a different level.

Question: You guys lost the first match against Brazil, what was the felling like after the game considering the team's preparation towards the tournament. 

It wasn't easy at all. It was hell! Because we knew we could do better than that, we knew we were better than Brazil and we could hold our own against any opposition. We got to camp that night and could not eat, everybody was grumbling, just because we knew we could have won the match. But in football you never can tell until 90 minutes. 

Question: What motivated the victory against Korea DPR and Hungary in the last two group matches? 

Before every match, we always have pre-match meeting with the coaches. They made us believe we could do better than what we did against Brazil. They made us believe in ourselves old us they believes in us as well, we also knew we could do better and gave our best in the match against North Korea and Hungary to come out victorious.

Question: Can you tell us what you think went wrong against Germany, which saw the end to your quest?

So many things went wrong on that day. Firstly, we have never played under that very weather before. We've been playing at New Plymouth which was not in the night. The second round games were to be played in Christ Church, which was colder than our previous venue (New Plymouth). The time for the match was 7.30 in the evening, we never trained at that time. The weather was very cold so it affected us a lot. Secondly, our minds were not together. Some of the foreign-based professionals were feeling too big. Unlike the African Championship where we were all working together.

Question: In essence, are you saying that the inclusion of some of the foreign-based the professionals affected the team?

Somehow the inclusion of these players i'll say affected the team and also helped on the other hand. You could see the likes of Success, Musa Yahaya and Wilfred Ndidi against Brazil giving their best to prove their mettle as professionals. But the fitness level could not be compared to those of us who have been training together for a couple of months.

Question: In all, what was your best moment in the tournament? 

Well, my best moment in that tournament was against Hungary because we knew if we had not won that game, it would have been something else. We would have been counting our fingers waiting to be part of the best losers. But we came out strong, did our best and got the three points, we won 2-0. After the game we were all very happy. 

Question: The world cup is over, what is your vision from here or What would it mean for you to play in Europe? 

My vision is to play in Europe. That has always been my dream, to play in the Champions League someday. But I know with God all thing are possible. 

Question: Can you mention some players you look up to? 

I look up to players like Andre Pirlo, Yaha Toure and John Obi Mikel. They are players i adore in the game.

Question: What is your advise to other young ones out there who also aspire to play for the national team some day? 

For me first, is self-believe. Because you may go somewhere and the coach does not believe in you but you need to prove the coach wrong. Also hard work is very important. I train very hard, I don't joke with my training. Work like there's no tomorrow, and above all is prayer because that is the key. 

Enyimba, Pillars bundled out of federations cup

Defending champions of the federation cup Enyimba and last season premier league champions have been knocked out of the federations cup.

Both teams lost to National League sides Remo Stars and Plateau United respectively in the round of 32 on Wednesday.

The matches ended in a draw after regulation time and were decided on penalty shoot-out.

Here are some other results: Ifeanyi Ubah beat Bayelsa 2-1, Heartland 1-0 Sharks FC, Lobi 1-0 Tornadoes, FC Kukuruku 0-3 Rangers, Prime beat J Atete 3-2 on penalties, Elkanemi Warriors also edged Gateway 4-3 on penalties,  Kwara United 5-3 ABU (Pen), Akwa united 3-1 Peacemakers FC

Poor finishing cost us against Rangers - Emeka Inyama

Chairman of Abia Warrior and board member of the Nigerian Football Federation has attributed his side's loss to Rangers in Wednesdays Premier League match to poor finishing.

Google Image: Chief  Emeka Inyama

Speaking with our correspondent Busayo Olowookere after the game, he said that it was a good match but Abia Warriors players failed to take chances.

''This is one of the matches where you don't see the better side win'', he said.

''It was a good game, our Abia Warriors gave a good account of themselves but poor finishing and all that, but Rangers got the three points and that is football.''

He further gave kudos to the home side for doing the necessary to clear maximum points ''Congratulations to Rangers''.

Chief Inyama who also commented on the exit of he country's representatives at the FIFA Womens World Cup and the U-20 World Cup advised the NFF to consider the quality of coaches they bring on board. 

''We need to rethink on the quality and caliber of Nigerian coaches, with all due respect. That is why the federation is going ''

''The federation is going ahead to employ foreign coach for the female team and the youth teams that will take youth development and produce a template to impact the right attitude on the players.

He further noted that indigenous coaches needs to improve their technical depth by going back to study some more.

Rangers pip Abia Warriors in dying minutes

By Busayo Oloowokere (Enugu)

It was a wild jubilation from the fans of Rangers international at the Nmamdi Azikwe stadium when Chisom Egbuchulam scored the winner with what could be last kick of the game.

With about 3,000 fans inside the stadium, the Flying Antelope needed to put smiles on the faces of their darling supporters who were disappointed in their last game in Ilorin losing 3-1 to the Harmony boys.

Both teams opened up the game in the early minutes with Rangers making a touching line clearance to deny Abia Warriors the lead. Rasak Adegbite also came closed but could not find the target before Marshall Odah blasting over the bar with only the goalkeeper of Abia Warriors to beat heating up frustration to end the first 45 mins at goalless.

On Resumption of the second half, both team geared up to find a goal with Abia Warrior's Ndifreke Effiong testing Itodo Akor in the 63rd mins to get a corner kick, while Osas Okoro who got a one on one with Chinedu Anozie blasted over the bar in the 76th mins.

With 4mins added time to be played, two one touch played from Rasak Adegbite and Osas Okoro drop the ball for Chisom Egbuchulam to fire in a shot into the back of the net to erupt a wild jubilation from the fans.

Speaking after the game, Abia Warriors Coach Ladan Bosso praised his boys for playing hard with determination and focus but expresses his dissatisfaction with the 4th official whom he claimed wasted time before showing of the added time. 

English Premier League 2015/2016 fixtures released

Saying that many English Premier League fans across the globe cannot wait for the 2015/2016 Season to kick off will not be an exaggeration as the fixtures have been released by the league on Wednesday morning.

League champions will play host to Swansea in their opening game at the Stamford bridge while second place Manchester City will be away against West Bromich Albion while Arsenal will be at home to Westham United.

Day one games are scheduled for 8th August, 2015.

See all fixtures below:

8 August 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Aston Villa #BOUAVL
Arsenal v West Ham United #ARSWHU
Chelsea v Swansea City #CHESWA
Everton v Watford #EVEWAT
Leicester City v Sunderland #LEISUN
Manchester United v Tottenham Hotspur #MUNTOT
Newcastle United v Southampton #NEWSOU
Norwich City v Crystal Palace #NORCRY
Stoke City v Liverpool #STKLIV
West Bromwich Albion v Manchester City #WBAMCI

15 August 2015
Aston Villa v Manchester United #AVLMUN
Crystal Palace v Arsenal #CRYARS
Liverpool v AFC Bournemouth #LIVBOU
Manchester City v Chelsea #MCICHE
Southampton v Everton #SOUEVE
Sunderland v Norwich City #SUNNOR
Swansea City v Newcastle United #SWANEW
Tottenham Hotspur v Stoke City #TOTSTK
Watford v West Bromwich Albion #WATWBA
West Ham United v Leicester City #WHULEI

22 August 2015
Arsenal v Liverpool #ARSLIV
Crystal Palace v Aston Villa #CRYAVL
Everton v Manchester City #EVEMCI
Leicester City v Tottenham Hotspur #LEITOT
Manchester United v Newcastle United #MUNNEW
Norwich City v Stoke City #NORSTK
Sunderland v Swansea City #SUNSWA
Watford v Southampton #WATSOU
West Bromwich Albion v Chelsea #WBACHE
West Ham United v AFC Bournemouth #WHUBOU

29 August 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Leicester City #BOULEI
Aston Villa v Sunderland #AVLSUN
Chelsea v Crystal Palace #CHECRY
Liverpool v West Ham United #LIVWHU
Manchester City v Watford #MCIWAT
Newcastle United v Arsenal #NEWARS
Southampton v Norwich City #SOUNOR
Stoke City v West Bromwich Albion #STKWBA
Swansea City v Manchester United #SWAMUN
Tottenham Hotspur v Everton #TOTEVE

12 September 2015
Arsenal v Stoke City #ARSSTK
Crystal Palace v Manchester City #CRYMCI
Everton v Chelsea #EVECHE
Leicester City v Aston Villa #LEIAVL
Manchester United v Liverpool #MUNLIV
Norwich City v AFC Bournemouth #NORBOU
Sunderland v Tottenham Hotspur #SUNTOT
Watford v Swansea City #WATSWA
West Bromwich Albion v Southampton #WBASOU
West Ham United v Newcastle United #WHUNEW

19 September 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Sunderland #BOUSUN
Aston Villa v West Bromwich Albion #AVLWBA
Chelsea v Arsenal #CHEARS
Liverpool v Norwich City #LIVNOR
Manchester City v West Ham United #MCIWHU
Newcastle United v Watford #NEWWAT
Southampton v Manchester United #SOUMUN
Stoke City v Leicester City #STKLEI
Swansea City v Everton #SWAEVE
Tottenham Hotspur v Crystal Palace #TOTCRY

26 September 2015
Leicester City v Arsenal #LEIARS
Liverpool v Aston Villa #LIVAVL
Manchester United v Sunderland #MUNSUN
Newcastle United v Chelsea #NEWCHE
Southampton v Swansea City #SOUSWA
Stoke City v AFC Bournemouth #STKBOU
Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester City #TOTMCI
Watford v Crystal Palace #WATCRY
West Bromwich Albion v Everton #WBAEVE
West Ham United v Norwich City #WHUNOR

3 October 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Watford #BOUWAT
Arsenal v Manchester United #ARSMUN
Aston Villa v Stoke City #AVLSTK
Chelsea v Southampton #CHESOU
Crystal Palace v West Bromwich Albion #CRYWBA
Everton v Liverpool #EVELIV
Manchester City v Newcastle United #MCINEW
Norwich City v Leicester City #NORLEI
Sunderland v West Ham United #SUNWHU
Swansea City v Tottenham Hotspur #SWATOT

17 October 2015
Chelsea v Aston Villa #CHEAVL
Crystal Palace v West Ham United #CRYWHU
Everton v Manchester United #EVEMUN
Manchester City v AFC Bournemouth #MCIBOU
Newcastle United v Norwich City #NEWNOR
Southampton v Leicester City #SOULEI
Swansea City v Stoke City #SWASTK
Tottenham Hotspur v Liverpool #TOTLIV
Watford v Arsenal #WATARS
West Bromwich Albion v Sunderland #WBASUN

24 October 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Tottenham Hotspur #BOUTOT
Arsenal v Everton #ARSEVE
Aston Villa v Swansea City #AVLSWA
Leicester City v Crystal Palace #LEICRY
Liverpool v Southampton #LIVSOU
Manchester United v Manchester City #MUNMCI
Norwich City v West Bromwich Albion #NORWBA
Stoke City v Watford #STKWAT
Sunderland v Newcastle United #SUNNEW
West Ham United v Chelsea #WHUCHE

31 October 2015
Chelsea v Liverpool #CHELIV
Crystal Palace v Manchester United #CRYMUN
Everton v Sunderland #EVESUN
Manchester City v Norwich City #MCINOR
Newcastle United v Stoke City #NEWSTK
Southampton v AFC Bournemouth #SOUBOU
Swansea City v Arsenal #SWAARS
Tottenham Hotspur v Aston Villa #TOTAVL
Watford v West Ham United #WATWHU
West Bromwich Albion v Leicester City #WBALEI

7 November 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Newcastle United #BOUNEW
Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur #ARSTOT
Aston Villa v Manchester City #AVLMCI
Leicester City v Watford #LEIWAT
Liverpool v Crystal Palace #LIVCRY
Manchester United v West Bromwich Albion #MUNWBA
Norwich City v Swansea City #NORSWA
Stoke City v Chelsea #STKCHE
Sunderland v Southampton #SUNSOU
West Ham United v Everton #WHUEVE

21 November 2015
Chelsea v Norwich City #CHENOR
Crystal Palace v Sunderland #CRYSUN
Everton v Aston Villa #EVEAVL
Manchester City v Liverpool #MCILIV
Newcastle United v Leicester City #NEWLEI
Southampton v Stoke City #SOUSTK
Swansea City v AFC Bournemouth #SWABOU
Tottenham Hotspur v West Ham United #TOTWHU
Watford v Manchester United #WATMUN
West Bromwich Albion v Arsenal #WBAARS

28 November 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Everton #BOUEVE
Aston Villa v Watford #AVLWAT
Crystal Palace v Newcastle United #CRYNEW
Leicester City v Manchester United #LEIMUN
Liverpool v Swansea City #LIVSWA
Manchester City v Southampton #MCISOU
Norwich City v Arsenal #NORARS
Sunderland v Stoke City #SUNSTK
Tottenham Hotspur v Chelsea #TOTCHE
West Ham United v West Bromwich Albion #WHUWBA

5 December 2015
Arsenal v Sunderland #ARSSUN
Chelsea v AFC Bournemouth #CHEBOU
Everton v Crystal Palace #EVECRY
Manchester United v West Ham United #MUNWHU
Newcastle United v Liverpool #NEWLIV
Southampton v Aston Villa #SOUAVL
Stoke City v Manchester City #STKMCI
Swansea City v Leicester City #SWALEI
Watford v Norwich City #WATNOR
West Bromwich Albion v Tottenham Hotspur #WBATOT

12 December 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Manchester United #BOUMUN
Aston Villa v Arsenal #AVLARS
Crystal Palace v Southampton #CRYSOU
Leicester City v Chelsea #LEICHE
Liverpool v West Bromwich Albion #LIVWBA
Manchester City v Swansea City #MCISWA
Norwich City v Everton #NOREVE
Sunderland v Watford #SUNWAT
Tottenham Hotspur v Newcastle United #TOTNEW
West Ham United v Stoke City #WHUSTK

19 December 2015
Arsenal v Manchester City #ARSMCI
Chelsea v Sunderland #CHESUN
Everton v Leicester City #EVELEI
Manchester United v Norwich City #MUNNOR
Newcastle United v Aston Villa #NEWAVL
Southampton v Tottenham Hotspur #SOUTOT
Stoke City v Crystal Palace #STKCRY
Swansea City v West Ham United #SWAWHU
Watford v Liverpool #WATLIV
West Bromwich Albion v AFC Bournemouth #WBABOU

26 December 2015
AFC Bournemouth v Crystal Palace #BOUCRY
Aston Villa v West Ham United #AVLWHU
Chelsea v Watford #CHEWAT
Liverpool v Leicester City #LIVLEI
Manchester City v Sunderland #MCISUN
Newcastle United v Everton #NEWEVE
Southampton v Arsenal #SOUARS
Stoke City v Manchester United #STKMUN
Swansea City v West Bromwich Albion #SWAWBA
Tottenham Hotspur v Norwich City #TOTNOR

28 December 2015
Arsenal v AFC Bournemouth #ARSBOU
Crystal Palace v Swansea City #CRYSWA
Everton v Stoke City #EVESTK
Leicester City v Manchester City #LEIMCI
Manchester United v Chelsea #MUNCHE
Norwich City v Aston Villa #NORAVL
Sunderland v Liverpool #SUNLIV
Watford v Tottenham Hotspur #WATTOT
West Bromwich Albion v Newcastle United #WBANEW
West Ham United v Southampton #WHUSOU

2 January 2016
Arsenal v Newcastle United #ARSNEW
Crystal Palace v Chelsea #CRYCHE
Everton v Tottenham Hotspur #EVETOT
Leicester City v AFC Bournemouth #LEIBOU
Manchester United v Swansea City #MUNSWA
Norwich City v Southampton #NORSOU
Sunderland v Aston Villa #SUNAVL
Watford v Manchester City #WATMCI
West Bromwich Albion v Stoke City #WBASTK
West Ham United v Liverpool #WHULIV

12 January 2016
7.45pm kick-offs unless stated
AFC Bournemouth v West Ham United #BOUWHU
Aston Villa v Crystal Palace #AVLCRY
8pm Liverpool v Arsenal #LIVARS
Swansea City v Sunderland #SWASUN

13 January 2016
7.45pm kick-offs unless stated
Chelsea v West Bromwich Albion #CHEWBA
Manchester City v Everton #MCIEVE
Newcastle United v Manchester United #NEWMUN
Southampton v Watford #SOUWAT
Stoke City v Norwich City #STKNOR
8pm Tottenham Hotspur v Leicester City #TOTLEI

16 January 2016
AFC Bournemouth v Norwich City #BOUNOR
Aston Villa v Leicester City #AVLLEI
Chelsea v Everton #CHEEVE
Liverpool v Manchester United #LIVMUN
Manchester City v Crystal Palace #MCICRY
Newcastle United v West Ham United #NEWWHU
Southampton v West Bromwich Albion #SOUWBA
Stoke City v Arsenal #STKARS
Swansea City v Watford #SWAWAT
Tottenham Hotspur v Sunderland #TOTSUN

23 January 2016
Arsenal v Chelsea #ARSCHE
Crystal Palace v Tottenham Hotspur #CRYTOT
Everton v Swansea City #EVESWA
Leicester City v Stoke City #LEISTK
Manchester United v Southampton #MUNSOU
Norwich City v Liverpool #NORLIV
Sunderland v AFC Bournemouth #SUNBOU
Watford v Newcastle United #WATNEW
West Bromwich Albion v Aston Villa #WBAAVL
West Ham United v Manchester City #WHUMCI

2 February 2016
7.45pm kick-offs unless stated
Arsenal v Southampton #ARSSOU
8pm Crystal Palace v AFC Bournemouth #CRYBOU
Leicester City v Liverpool #LEILIV
8pm Manchester United v Stoke City #MUNSTK
Norwich City v Tottenham Hotspur #NORTOT
Sunderland v Manchester City #SUNMCI
Watford v Chelsea #WATCHE
8pm West Bromwich Albion v Swansea City #WBASWA
West Ham United v Aston Villa #WHUAVL

3 February 2016
7.45pm Everton v Newcastle United #EVENEW

6 February 2016
AFC Bournemouth v Arsenal #BOUARS
Aston Villa v Norwich City #AVLNOR
Chelsea v Manchester United #CHEMUN
Liverpool v Sunderland #LIVSUN
Manchester City v Leicester City #MCILEI
Newcastle United v West Bromwich Albion #NEWWBA
Southampton v West Ham United #SOUWHU
Stoke City v Everton #STKEVE
Swansea City v Crystal Palace #SWACRY
Tottenham Hotspur v Watford #TOTWAT

13 February 2016
AFC Bournemouth v Stoke City #BOUSTK
Arsenal v Leicester City #ARSLEI
Aston Villa v Liverpool #AVLLIV
Chelsea v Newcastle United #CHENEW
Crystal Palace v Watford #CRYWAT
Everton v West Bromwich Albion #EVEWBA
Manchester City v Tottenham Hotspur #MCITOT
Norwich City v West Ham United #NORWHU
Sunderland v Manchester United #SUNMUN
Swansea City v Southampton #SWASOU

27 February 2016
Leicester City v Norwich City #LEINOR
Liverpool v Everton #LIVEVE
Manchester United v Arsenal #MUNARS
Newcastle United v Manchester City #NEWMCI
Southampton v Chelsea #SOUCHE
Stoke City v Aston Villa #STKAVL
Tottenham Hotspur v Swansea City #TOTSWA
Watford v AFC Bournemouth #WATBOU
West Bromwich Albion v Crystal Palace #WBACRY
West Ham United v Sunderland #WHUSUN

1 March 2016
7.45pm kick-offs unless stated
AFC Bournemouth v Southampton #BOUSOU
Arsenal v Swansea City #ARSSWA
Aston Villa v Everton #AVLEVE
Leicester City v West Bromwich Albion #LEIWBA
8pm Liverpool v Manchester City #LIVMCI
8pm Manchester United v Watford #MUNWAT
Norwich City v Chelsea #NORCHE
Sunderland v Crystal Palace #SUNCRY
West Ham United v Tottenham Hotspur #WHUTOT

2 March 2016
7.45pm Stoke City v Newcastle United #STKNEW

5 March 2016
Chelsea v Stoke City #CHESTK
Crystal Palace v Liverpool #CRYLIV
Everton v West Ham United #EVEWHU
Manchester City v Aston Villa #MCIAVL
Newcastle United v AFC Bournemouth #NEWBOU
Southampton v Sunderland #SOUSUN
Swansea City v Norwich City #SWANOR
Tottenham Hotspur v Arsenal #TOTARS
Watford v Leicester City #WATLEI
West Bromwich Albion v Manchester United #WBAMUN

12 March 2016 AFC Bournemouth v Swansea City #BOUSWA
Arsenal v West Bromwich Albion #ARSWBA
Aston Villa v Tottenham Hotspur #AVLTOT
Leicester City v Newcastle United #LEINEW
Liverpool v Chelsea #LIVCHE
Manchester United v Crystal Palace #MUNCRY
Norwich City v Manchester City #NORMCI
Stoke City v Southampton #STKSOU
Sunderland v Everton #SUNEVE
West Ham United v Watford #WHUWAT

19 March 2016
Chelsea v West Ham United #CHEWHU
Crystal Palace v Leicester City #CRYLEI
Everton v Arsenal #EVEARS
Manchester City v Manchester United #MCIMUN
Newcastle United v Sunderland #NEWSUN
Southampton v Liverpool #SOULIV
Swansea City v Aston Villa #SWAAVL
Tottenham Hotspur v AFC Bournemouth #TOTBOU
Watford v Stoke City #WATSTK
West Bromwich Albion v Norwich City #WBANOR

2 April 2016

AFC Bournemouth v Manchester City #BOUMCI
Arsenal v Watford #ARSWAT
Aston Villa v Chelsea #AVLCHE
Leicester City v Southampton #LEISOU
Liverpool v Tottenham Hotspur #LIVTOT
Manchester United v Everton #MUNEVE
Norwich City v Newcastle United #NORNEW
Stoke City v Swansea City #STKSWA
Sunderland v West Bromwich Albion #SUNWBA
West Ham United v Crystal Palace #WHUCRY

9 April 2016
Aston Villa v AFC Bournemouth #AVLBOU
Crystal Palace v Norwich City #CRYNOR
Liverpool v Stoke City #LIVSTK
Manchester City v West Bromwich Albion #MCIWBA
Southampton v Newcastle United #SOUNEW
Sunderland v Leicester City #SUNLEI
Swansea City v Chelsea #SWACHE
Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United #TOTMUN
Watford v Everton #WATEVE
West Ham United v Arsenal #WHUARS

16 April 2016
AFC Bournemouth v Liverpool #BOULIV
Arsenal v Crystal Palace #ARSCRY
Chelsea v Manchester City #CHEMCI
Everton v Southampton #EVESOU
Leicester City v West Ham United #LEIWHU
Manchester United v Aston Villa #MUNAVL
Newcastle United v Swansea City #NEWSWA
Norwich City v Sunderland #NORSUN
Stoke City v Tottenham Hotspur #STKTOT
West Bromwich Albion v Watford #WBAWAT

23 April 2016
AFC Bournemouth v Chelsea #BOUCHE
Aston Villa v Southampton #AVLSOU
Crystal Palace v Everton #CRYEVE
Leicester City v Swansea City #LEISWA
Liverpool v Newcastle United #LIVNEW
Manchester City v Stoke City #MCISTK
Norwich City v Watford #NORWAT
Sunderland v Arsenal #SUNARS
Tottenham Hotspur v West Bromwich Albion #TOTWBA
West Ham United v Manchester United #WHUMUN

30 April 2016
Arsenal v Norwich City #ARSNOR
Chelsea v Tottenham Hotspur #CHETOT
Everton v AFC Bournemouth #EVEBOU
Manchester United v Leicester City #MUNLEI
Newcastle United v Crystal Palace #NEWCRY
Southampton v Manchester City #SOUMCI
Stoke City v Sunderland #STKSUN
Swansea City v Liverpool #SWALIV
Watford v Aston Villa #WATAVL
West Bromwich Albion v West Ham United #WBAWHU

7 May 2016
AFC Bournemouth v West Bromwich Albion #BOUWBA
Aston Villa v Newcastle United #AVLNEW
Crystal Palace v Stoke City #CRYSTK
Leicester City v Everton #LEIEVE
Liverpool v Watford #LIVWAT
Manchester City v Arsenal #MCIARS
Norwich City v Manchester United #NORMUN
Sunderland v Chelsea #SUNCHE
Tottenham Hotspur v Southampton #TOTSOU
West Ham United v Swansea City #WHUSWA

15 May 2016
Arsenal v Aston Villa #ARSAVL
Chelsea v Leicester City #CHELEI
Everton v Norwich City #EVENOR
Manchester United v AFC Bournemouth #MUNBOU
Newcastle United v Tottenham Hotspur #NEWTOT
Southampton v Crystal Palace #SOUCRY
Stoke City v West Ham United #STKWHU
Swansea City v Manchester City #SWAMCI
Watford v Sunderland #WATSUN
West Bromwich Albion v Liverpool #WBALIV

Nigeria U-20 Striker Taiwo Awoniyi disowns fake Twitter account

This is interesting! Nigeria U-20 and U-23 Striker, Taiwo Awoniyi has denied ownership of the twitter account @_awoniyi that has been posing as his official account.

He revealed this via hhis facebook and his Instagram account stating that the account was opened by fraudsters who pretend to be him.

''Morning pales,,NOTICE...please there is someone using this Twitter account @_awoniyi for years posting a lot n making people believing is me just want to inform everyone that I have no Twitter account,,is just a fraud pls be aware pals n kindly help in sharing this plsssss'' - Awoniyi on his facebook page.

The image below reveals his post on Instagram.

The said twitter account currently has a total of 1,032 followers at the time of reporting.

Tributes pour in for Nigerian footballer who collapsed and died in Malaysia

This is sad! I understand the fact that David Faramola Oniya is not the first player to have collapsed while playing (hunting for his daily bread) and eventually pass on. To mention a few similar incidence, Marc-Vivien Foe of Cameroun during a Confederations Cup game in 2003, and recently Belgium lost two players in similar fashion this year.

The death of this Nigerian footballer who plies his trade for T-Team, a club in Malaysia during a friendly game against Kelantan on Saturday 13th June 2015 came as a rude shock to many including his friends and Nigerians at large especially those who understand the ''hustle'' and the search for greener pasture.

I visited his Facebook page and realized that many who were sending in their condolences do not know David from Adam. Nigerians, colleagues and many others he had had contact with during his days on earth could not hold back but drop a line.

According to reports, he had barely had contact with the ball, in fact he had not played five minutes before he slumped and was rushed to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The essence of this write-up is not to join in the blame game, however, we won't delve into the blame game by his club Chief Executive CEO Syahrizan Mohd Zain who felt the player would have survived if only he had received adequate and prompt attention.

All that would not wake the dead! We can only send our prayers and that is what many of David's ''friends'' at large are doing now.

The Nigerian Football Federation via twitter ''RIP David Faramola Oniya''

Posted by @Thenff via twitter

''Our thoughts are with the family of Late David Faramola Oniya a Nigerian footballer who was with Malaysia Premier League club T-Team F.C.'' - @Thenff

Manchester United Malaysian Twitter Fan page Condolences to the family of T-Team kapten, Farmula David Aniya who died during a friendly match vs Kelantan in KB. - @MUFC_Malaysia

Nigerian defender David Oniya has died after collapsing on the pitch during a friendly match between his Malaysian club T-Team and Kelantan.  ‏@NigeriaNewsdesk via Twitter

On the deceased facebook account , here are some of the heartfelt messages:

 Faith Eagle Oniya on Facebook - ''Just lost my brother, the captain of the German team, David Faramola Oniyain Germany some few minutes ago. I have not recovered from the shock.

Had a dream this morning I didn't understand... But GOD does!

THE BIBLE TELLS ME TO GIVE THANKS IN EVERYTHING...but two requests Lord,...

Give us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss....

Lord, may this STOP from now on.

Thank you

Father    

''Its very sad to see him passed away like this.. A very discipline and committed player on and off the pitch.. As a person who greet him the first day he's in training and until his last breath.. You'll be missed my brother and my captain'' -  Mohd Hazwan Zikri said on David's Facebook account.

''RIP bro, still find it difficult to belief, we love you but God love you more.'' - Akintola Olayinka via facebook.

''You were like a brother to me....Our days in Azerbaijan was filled with inspiring memories..We love you,but God loves you more....Still can't believe you are gone Brother!!! - Bello Abayomi

And from me, I say ''death! Thou hath cruel. Rest in Peace Brother.

The center back had played football for more than 10 years as a professional. He played in played in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan before moving to Malaysian this season.

Super Eagles Experience: Shobowale appreciates Keshi

Kano Pillars midfielder Shobowale Azeez has expressed his appreciation to Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi for the opportunity handed him to have a feel of senior national team.

Shobowale Azeez in Kano Pillars Jersey (Left)

In an exclusive chat with SportsTalk, he said that the experience he has gained cannot be quantified despite not making the list of eight players retained by the gaffer for the Afcon qualifier against Chad.

''I like to thank God for everything and to coach Keshi for calling me up in the first place, - he said.

''I never expected it, but when the chance came I was glad. So, I'm happy for the experience even if I did not make the team that will play Chad but I believe my time will come.

The former Dolphin FC player, also recounted his experience at training and what it feels like to be in camp.

''The pattern here is quite different from what we do at club side. It was more of tactical discipline. You just have a feel of togetherness and understanding.''

Shobowale has however returned to his club base in Kano as they continue their quest for glory in the Glo Premier League 2014/2015 season.

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles camp has witnessed the arrival of some foreign-based players who would join up with the home-based professionals to prosecute the qualifier against Chad.

OPINION: Brazil Beat Flying Eagles 4-2, so what?

By Amos Joseph

On the first day in the month of June, 2015, Nigerians woke up to the news that the Flying Eagles were beaten. Trust me, many Nigerian folks would not like to start on that note, for certain beliefs, but the headline is for real.

Google Image: Brazil 4-2 Nigeria

Nigeria Flying Eagles were humbled by the Brazilian U-20 Boys in the on-going FIFA World Cup in New Zealand. In fact, our boys were beaten 4-2 in their opening game in the early hours of Monday.

For football enthusiasts, the match indeed lived up to its billing as the world bundle of skills, goals, free-flowing football and highly entertaining.

Flying Eagles went into the game with loads of confidence having triumphed from the continental stage and smashing performances in their pre-tournament friendlies. But they need to show that to the world also, as they battle their ways through to the next stage of the competition. 

History they say has bearing on the way we think and act in the future as the Brazilians triumphed in after 90 minutes. According to history, the Flying Eagles met Brazil in 1983 (lost 0-3), 1987 (lost 0-4) and in 2005 (drew 0-0).

Some say damn history but one cannot but reckon with history in the game of football as teams with tradition and style overtime do not deviate. Meanwhile, Manu Garba coach of the Nigerian lads decided to approach the match with attack, attack and attack which is not a bad idea but ''We forgot we played against Brazil, the midfield gave the ball out cheaply and there was nothing exciting in front of goal, Paul Bassey told footballlive.ng after the match on Monday morning.

The young Brazilians took the lead and our boys rallied back with a lead but failed to hold on before the end of the first 45 minutes. Call it one of those bad days and you'll be absolutely correct especially for Joshua Enaholo's the goalkeeper whose errors cost the team so much as he shipped in two goals before the close of business on that fateful day.

An overconfident me, never expected the result, although the boys tried their best and I have a firm believe in the team. I however expect to see the team bounce back, win their remaining two matches well and qualify for the next phase but it might not come as easy a a pie. In Gold Coast, golds don't lie enticingly for people to pick.

Come Thursday, a badly wounded Korean side who lost 5-1 to Hungary will confront the Flying Eagles with hopes of redeeming and finding their feet on the standings (log). It will be a good chance for the Manu Graba boys to recover their confidence as the tournament progresses. 

As for the Football federation and Nigerians at large this is not the time to mount pressure on the team as we know what they are capable of. Let's rally round the team and support them to the finals.

Nigeria Falcons Coach Edwin Okon picks Asisat Oshoala, 22 others for World Cup

Towards the forthcoming 7th FIFA Womens World Cup, Coach Edwin Okon has released his list of 23 players who will represent Nigeria in Canada next week.

The list includes BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year Asisat Oshoala, team captain Evelyn Nwabuoku and veteran goalkeeper Precious Dede.

Top Scorer at the 2014 African Women Championship Desire Oparanozie, defenders Onome Ebi, Josephine Chukwunonye and Ngozi Ebere, midfielder Halimatu Ayinde, veteran striker Perpetua Nkwocha and England-based Ini-Abasi Umotong are also included, as well as US –based forward Francisca Ordega.

Nigeria play Sweden, Australia and USA in Group D at the 7th FIFA Women’s World Cup, with their first match against Sweden in Winnipeg on Monday, 8th June.

THE FULL LIST

Goalkeepers: Precious Dede (Ibom Queens); Christy Ohiaeriaku (Rivers Angels); Ibubeleye Whyte (Rivers Angels)

Defenders: Blessing Edoho (Pelican Stars); Osinachi Ohale (Rivers Angels); Onome Ebi (FC Minsk, Belarus); Josephine Chukwunonye (Rivers Angels); Ugo Njoku (Rivers Angels); Ngozi Ebere (Rivers Angels); Sarah Nnodim (Nasarawa Amazons)

Midfielders: Evelyn Nwabuoku (BIIK Kazygurt, Kazakhstan); Halimatu Ayinde (Delta Queens); Martina Ohadugha (Rivers Angels); Cecilia Nku (Rivers Angels)

Forwards: Perpetua Nkwocha (Clemensnas IF, Sweden); Esther Sunday (FC Minsk, Belarus); Asisat Oshoala (Liverpool Ladies, England); Desire Oparanozie (En Avant Guingamp, France); Ngozi Okobi (Delta Queens); Francisca Ordega (Washington Spirit, USA); Loveth Ayila (Rivers Angels); Courtney Dike (Oklahoma State University, USA); Ini-Abasi Umotong (Portsmouth Ladies, England)



Source: thenff.com

Some interesting transfer gist you might be interested in

Google Image: Karim Benzema

We hear that Manchester United are preparing to join Arsenal in the race to sign Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema this summer, who is valued at around £40m. United indeed need to sign a striker yes or yes?

From the stables of the Gunners, Theo Walcott is in the news as it is reported that the winger will hold crunch talks with Arsenal next week. 

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is monitoring Villarreal striker Gerard Moreno as a surprise summer target. Well, we all know how Wenger likes to trade, he like them cheap but with quality. The player scored 16 times for his club in the recently concluded season.


John Terry wants to finish his career at Chelsea - but would be open to joining Frank Lampard in America. You will agree that he had the best of the season and his fans and the entire Chelsea outfit would not mind having him around for another season.

Juventus hope to close on a deal for Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira. It could be said without fear of contradiction that the player is surplus to requirment at this point in time and the best option for him is to make that move away from the Bernabeau.

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers wants Christian Benteke. Of course they need a goal-scorer at Anfield and the Belgian would not be a bad idea afterall, having netted 12 times in his last 12 appearances appearances. At least they won't have to rely so much on Daniel Sturridge and Raheem Sterling.

Paris Saint-German are reportedly interested in signing Xavi on loan this summer. He announced last week that he was leaving Barcelona for Al-Saad but it is also being reported that the midfield maestro might be playing in Paris next season. We understand that The president of his new club is the brother of Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Emir of Qatar and the "real owner of PSG". 

Just like we saw in the case of Frank Lampar who joined MLS outfit but ended up playing for Manchester City.

Pellegrini insists Yaya Toure will remain at Man City. Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini is confident that Yaya Toure still has unfinished business at the club, however he would not be leaving this summer despite being linked with a move away from Etihad. Time shall tell.

Asisat Oshoala wins first BBC Women's Footballer of The Year Award

Africa's best Asisat Oshoala has won the first edition of BBC Women’s footballer of the year award.

The Liverpool Ladies star beat Spain's Veronica Boquete, German Nadine Kessler, Scot Kim Little and Brazilian Marta claim the award.

The shortlist was selected by a panel of experts including administrators, journalists, coaches and former players while the winner was decided by football fans around the world through voting.

"I am extremely proud to have won this award as it is a real honour for both myself and my family, said Oshoala.

"Just to be nominated against such world-class players was a real privilege, but to have won the award is absolutely fantastic.

"Last year was an incredible year as I managed to help Nigeria U20s get to the U20 World Cup final, as well as being named African Women's Footballer of the Year, so this award tops off a great year.

"I would like to thank everyone that voted for me, with a special mention to my supporters in Nigeria, including my previous club River Angels and my current club, Liverpool Ladies."

Source: Liverpoolfc.com

Carlo Ancelotti's Sack: What is wrong with Real Madrid?

By Amos Joseph

It is often said that to whom much is given, much is expected. This is often the situation with ''big'' clubs like Real Madrid. The club management sign top quality players and managers both for on and off the field business which explains why the demand is usually high.

Google Image: Carlo Acelotti

Carlo Ancelotti won the much coveted La Decima (10th Champions league title), Copa Del Rey, Eufa Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup in in December 2014, yet he was axed simply because the club ended the season without a trophy. He delivered what ''the special one could not deliver in his first season.

What is Arsene Wenger still doing in Arsenal despite the call for his sack year after year by fans of the club? You may ask. Answer: Obviously the philosophy and target are not the same. 

Between 2004 till date, the Whites have employed the services of over nine coaches with Jose Mourinho as the longest serving enjoying three seasons at the club.

"I would like to inform you that the board has taken the decision to relieve Carlo Ancelotti of his post as Real Madrid coach," Perez said at a press conference on Monday.

"It was a very difficult decision to make; the demands at this club are the utmost because Madrid always wants to win silverware.

"The affection that the players and the fans have for Carlo is the same as the affection I myself have for him.

"What did Ancelotti do wrong? I don't know. The demands here at Real Madrid are very high."

It could therefore be stated without fear of contradiction that affection is not enough at Real Madrid, as one can liken the club to that girlfriend who is too demanding despite efforts by her boyfriend to give her the ''best''. 

Flowing from the above, one is then tempted to say that Real Madrid is a difficult terrain. So for any coach coming to the Bernabeau, he must be ready for the exit door if he dare fails to win laurel as spelt out in the words of the club president.

We also hear that Raphael Bernitez could be the possible replacement for Ancelotti. Right move or wrong move, time shall tell. 

Please note: This is my submission. You are entitled to your opinion.

Opinion: LMC and this compulsory three weeks break

By Amos Joseph

The League management Company (the body saddled with the responsibility of organizing and coordinating the league in Nigeria) has announced a three weeks break in the 2014/2015 league after match day 10.

In fact, the Chairman of the LMC Mallam Shehu Dikko said the break period would be used amongst other things to carry out spot checks on Clubs’ compliance with the NFF Clubs Certification Regulations and also allow the clubs Managers some space to engage meaningfully with the new political leadership in their respective states.

''You may wish to recall that we started the league with blanket provisional waiver to the clubs to allow them comply with all registration requirements before Match Day 9 when a review will be conducted by the LMC. The break period is also a time to revisit club stadium facilities to remedy observed defects as the clubs have so far operated with provisional certificates" the LMC Chairman added (as quoted on the body;s website).

Mallam Dikko said the break had also become necessary to allow the club managers time to "acquaint themselves and engage meaningfully with their respective new Governor-owners."

The League will now resume June 14 with games of Match Day 11, some stakeholder have berated the decision to put the league to a halt at this point in time.

Meanwhile, Coach of Enyimba, Kadiri Ikhana expressed his displeasure with the action and stated that it is a setback for teams especially his own side.

''Its very bad for the League, very bad for the teams and its likely to give us a big setback, he told football live.ng in an interview.

''Why do we need a break, I don’t see the reason why or what we need the break for. Everybody is playing their game, we should be allowed to play on, its to bad.''

His team just bounced to winning ways with victory over Dolphins FC and their most recent over Elkanemi on Wednesday which saw the team land third spot on the log with 18 points from 10 matches. 

It is also worthy of note that some team are yet to find their feet in the campaign and would not mind having a break to fine tune or restrategize on their tactics and approach to the league.

I saw on the news how fans of Lobi Stars protested when their team failed to record a win, but until match day 10 the team recorded its first win in the campaign against Heartland FC on Wednesday. 

Other teams rocking the bottom of the log are also caught in this web and would also be glad that this break is coming at a time as this. But that is not to say that they would do better when the league returns if nothing is done during the break. 

Flowing from the above, the intentions of the LMC is clear and not far from the obvious truth since most clubs in the league are owned by government. It is move in which every stakeholder would benefit from. 

Elections were held in over 20 states across the federation with virtually all these states having a team in the Premier League, some can boast of two, like Rivers and Abia state. The government is the sole financier of most clubs and come May 29th, 2015, power will change hands as the baton would be passed to Governors elect in concerned states which will affect every affair of the state including funding of football club in a way depending on the interest of the government of the day.

LMC is however left with no choice but to pause and allow the transitions processing happen to ensure stability.

Meanwhile, for football reason, Coach Ikhana and some other who may be feeling the postponement is uncalled for may be justified to an extent based on the impressive performance of their teams which they would love to keep the momentum going. But it should also be noted that the football business is beyond the field of play and every stakeholder need to be aware of this fact. 

Simply put, our clubs have been thriving on government funds which means they would be affected by their activities. Many have termed this as unhealthy for the development of our football and kudos must go to the privately owned clubs like Giwa et al as we also look forward to seeing more individual with genuine interest in Nigerian football development buying up clubs and take our game to the next level. 

Keshi swings into action - Invites 26 Home-based Players for Afcon 2017Qualifier against Chad

As Nigeria prepares for the  2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad, Head Coach of the senior national team, Stephen Keshi has invited 26 home-based professionals to camp.

The list comprises of some familiar faces like Daniel Akpeyi, Solomon Kwambe, Chibuzor Okonkwo, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Rabiu Ali, Kunle Odunlami, Gbolahan Salami and Ezekiel Mba while the new lads includes Ibrahim Shaibu, Onoriode Odah and Igbinosa.

Record scorer in the Nigeria elite division, Mfon Udoh is accompanied by former junior international goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Nelson Ogbonnaya, Nathaniel Joseph and Moses Ekpai Ubong.

Enyimba FC captain Chinedu Udoji, Giwa FC’s Henlong Charles, Joe Omale of Dekina Dragons and FC Taraba’s Samuel Olabisi are coming into camp for the first time.

All the invited players are expected to report at the Bolton Hotel Apartments, Wuse, Abuja on Tuesday, 19th May, 2015

THE FULL LIST

Goalkeepers: Daniel Akpeyi (Warri Wolves); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Sunshine Stars); Chidiebere Eze (Gabros International)

Defenders: Solomon Kwambe (Warri Wolves); Chibuzor Okonkwo (Gabros International); Idris Aloma (Enyimba FC); Chima Akas (Sharks FC); Nelson Ogbonnaya (Heartland FC); Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves); Chinedu Udoji (Enyimba FC); Samuel Olabisi (FC Taraba); Kunle Odunlami (Sunshine Stars)

Midfielders: Nathaniel Joseph (Sharks FC); Michael Egbeta (Warri Wolves); Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars); Igbinosa Esosa (Nasarawa United); Moses Ekpai Ubong (Kano Pillars); Henlong Charles (Giwa FC)

Forwards: Mfon Udoh (Enyimba FC); Gbolahan Salami (Warri Wolves); Ibrahim Shaibu (Giwa FC); Joe Omale (Dekina Dragons); Stanley Dimgba (Warri Wolves); Ezekiel Mbah (Kano Pillars); Onoriode Odah (Enugu Rangers); Azeez Shobowale (Kano Pillars)

Source: thenff.com