Unsung heroes …glory men

They call them back room staff, those that cannot be seen in the sitting room when visitors are around. When journalists and cameras come calling, they are relegated to the back ground, yet they are those who help to oil the machinery of the team’s success.

Nigerian players wave a banner with thanks after winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2013 at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium, on November 8, 2013 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Nigeria won the final against Mexico 3-0. AFP PHOTO

First on this list is Goalkeeper trainer Emeka Amadi. We forget that four coaches are attached to this team. We remember Manu, Ugbade, Amuneke and forget Amadi, the man who guided Alampasu (A graduate of the College of Football, Abuja ) to becoming the best goalkeeper in the tournament. Unknown to Nigerians Amadi went to the world cup with three new goalkeepers different from those that went to Morocco. One of them Uzoho  Odinaka infact joined the team less than two months ago.

Then there is Dr Deji Olarinoye and Physiotherapist Gabriel Oyegun. The Coordinator  of the team is Suleiman Abubakar ex player and former Team Manager of FC Abuja. The hard working Team Secretary Tayo Egbaiyelo and Mohammed Kafa the Equipment Manager and our own indefatigable Morankiyo Abodunrin, the Media officer who churns out stories as if there will be no tomorrow.

These are the Glory Men, without them where will the boys be?