BY JOE APU
ONE-TIME NFA vice chairman and Team Manager of the Super Eagles, Bar. Richard Obienu has described the late former Super Eagles coach Shuaib Amodu as a complete gentleman who had a passion for coaching.
“I can’t believe the news of Amodu’s death. Only a few days ago, I was brought to tears with the news of Stephen Keshi and now this one. I worked with both men as Super Eagles Team Manager and I can vouch for their integrity and hard work. We went the extra mile to ensure Nigeria’s qualification for the Korea/Japan FIFA World Cup in 2002.
“After the Mali 2002 Nations Cup, we were all sacked. The other member of the team was coach Joe Erico who played his role excellently.
“I’m in shock and cannot understand what is happening. Having undergone operation for my eyes, I had come close to death but survived. I never in my wildest dreams envisaged what is happening our football.”
He said as a coach, Amodu was exceptional and knew his onion. “Many thought he was a proud man but having worked closely with him, I can tell of his simplicity and diligence to work. I pray for the repose of his soul.”