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Last Updated: 2004-02-04 21:19:36
By china acheru () Email to a friend  |  Printable version

Nigeria recall sacked trio

Just like it was speculated in the media last weekend, the three players banished by Nigeria, Celestine Babayaro, Victor Agali and Yakubu Aiyegbeni have been recalled to the Super Eagles.

They were alleged to have broken camp rules just before the game against South Africa and sent packing from the Eagles' Nation’s Cup camp.

 
Sports minister, Musa Mohammed was reported to have said the players would be recalled after the match against Benin even though the Nigeria Football Association Chairman denied any such plans since, “the boys never tendered an apology and we can only do that if they are sorry for their act”


After Nigeria’s final group game against Benin on Wednesday night, chief Coach Christian Chukwu announced that the trio had been recalled and are expected to report to camp before the quarterfinal clash against Cameroon on Sunday.


“The suspension has been lifted and they can join us immediately,”

Christian Chukwu said the players had shown remorse and have apologized and that is why they have been forgiven.

Nigeria’s Captain, Austin Okocha was one of the first to speak against the expulsion saying it came at the wrong time, but was not sure if the affected players would want to return at this time.


All three have already returned to their bases in Europe, while Yakubu Aiyegbeni featured for his club, Portsmouth on Saturday in the English Premiership

6
Link  |  2004-02-04 21:28
okeagu (Dallas usa)
The issue is not more or less their pardon. A landmark has been made to tell our boys that you cannot play the game if you don`t have the character.

okeagu
Dallas USA.
Link  |  2004-02-05 02:43
iyke (ekpoma)
leave them alone.if they dont want to come back.we can do without them
Link  |  2004-02-05 21:37
hassan (Nigeria)
It doesn't sound nice for the Eagles that were sent out of camp to come back. The pride in 'em will make them feel sober and I don't think we need to depend on them before we can conquer the Indomitable lions of Cameroun.
The rest of the team can defeat Cameroun if they are determined.
Link  |  2004-02-06 15:38
Bolaji Abimbola (Ibadan)
The recall of the trio is good as this signify the spirit of forgiveness and as well serve as a warning cue to other players even players of next generation that players can be dealt with when camp rules are broken.
At the same time the players would serve as a boost for the team to win the age-long rival(cameroon)in the quater-final encounter
Link  |  2004-02-06 15:38
Bolaji Abimbola (Ibadan)
The recall of the trio is good as this signify the spirit of forgiveness and as well serve as a warning cue to other players even players of next generation that players can be dealt with when camp rules are broken.
At the same time the players would serve as a boost for the team to win the age-long rival(cameroon)in the quater-final encounter
Link  |  2004-02-06 17:28
Aminu (Nigeria)
I am not happy with the recall of the expelled players. It goes a long way to tell the world that we are lawless people. Furthermore, the said players do not have the interest of the country at heart, as they did not show any remorse for the offence commited. I am sorry to say that, these players may bring set-back to our quest for the Nationn's cup.

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