'Broke' NFF employs German coach for Flying Eagles

THE Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), which recently sacked some Super Eagles’ coaches and backroom staff because it was broke, has ratified the appointment of German, Jurgen Press, as an assistant coach in the national Under-20 team, the Flying Eagles.

 NFF Media Officer, Ademola Olajire told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Monday that the German tactician was now on the payroll of the football regulatory body.

 Olajire told NAN that Flying Eagles’ Coach, John Obuh had requested for an assistant and the request was granted, adding that Press’ employment had been endorsed by the association. “Obuh requested for an assistant and the NFA gave him the nod to seek for a suitable coach. Having said so, the German will be paid by the NFA and not from Obuh’s pocket,” Olajire said.

 The FIFA U-20 World Cup is slated to hold in Turkey from June 21 to July 13, and the Flying Eagles are in Group B, alongside: Cuba, Portugal and Korea Republic. Meanwhile, a former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dosu Joseph has supported the decision to hire a foreign assistant coach for the Flying Eagles in the buildup to the U-20 World Cup in Turkey. Dosu told NAN in Lagos that Obuh’s decision to hire a foreigner was a good step, adding that his recent coaching course in Germany might have influenced the decision.

 He added that Germans were technically and tactically gifted in their understanding of the game, and could play a crucial role in the team’s outing. “I believe it’s a good step in the right direction. The most important thing is for the team to perform well in Turkey.