Supporters of the Super Eagles have expressed willingness to watch the team play a match in Lagos State.
President General (worldwide) of Nigerian Football and Other Sports Supporters Club Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, made the call in an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Saturday.
Ladipo backed an earlier statement by former Super Eagles captain and coach that Eagles must return to playing matches in Lagos to be great again.
“If Nigeria wants to succeed and get back to the top in the world, Lagos has to become again the number one venue for national team games.
“Lagos has about 20 million people and the market is there. For you to succeed as a player, you need positive pressure and that is what Lagos gives you, but very few people can stand it,” Oliseh said during an interview on PUNCH Online Kick & Follow on Friday.
According to Ladipo, the former Super Eagles skipper spoke the minds of many supporters and fans.
He said, “It was in Lagos that we discovered many stars that have made Nigeria proud. Bringing Super Eagles to Lagos will allow many fans to watch them and criticise them objectively, which will bring a better result. Eagles should return to their base – Lagos.”
When asked about the poor state of the Lagos Stadium, he replied, “I am not happy that the stadium is in bad shape. But I am aware that the current sports minister is trying to bring about the renovation that is required.”
On violence being witnessed when the Nigerian team fumble in Lagos, Ladipo assured that supporters would be peaceful and won’t attack any player.
“We love support Eagles wholeheartedly that we always want them to win. Supporters have learnt our lessons. Eagles have not played in Lagos for over 20 years, if we are given another opportunity, we will not be violent,” he added.
Credit: punchng.com
