…We have gone for the best legs- Paul Bassey assures
By Ekemini Simon
In what may appear as a signal towards readiness for the 2019/20 NPFL season, top Nigeria Professional Football League side and two-time Aiteo cup winners, Akwa United football club have officially presented to the public her new technical adviser and head coach, John Obuh and his assistant Duke Udi to bring their skills and experience to bear towards improving the playing standard of the club.
The unveiling which took place today at the Godswill Akpabio international stadium, Uyo witnessed the Promise keepers also making public 15 newly signed players in what could pass for bring on any opponent pose.
John Obuh who is moving from Kwara United after helping the team gained promotion from the NNL has signed a year contract with the Promise Keepers. He has featured for many top clubs including Abiola Babes, Udoji United, Julius Berger, Sharks FC, Enugu Rangers and Enyimba as a player. Obuh who hails from Abia State started his coaching career in 1994/1995 season as a coach-player with Enyimba of Aba. He has also worked with the National Under-17 team- the Golden Eaglets and the National Under-20 team- the Flying Eagles between 2008-2013.
Obuh has CAF B coaching license, English FA International coaching license, and German Football A license.
Also joining Akwa United’s technical crew for the new season is former Super Eagles, Grasshopper of Switzerland and Akwa United defender Duke Udi as the Deputy Head Coach.
Udi has previously worked as a coach with Giwa FC, Enugu Rangers, Sunshine stars amongst others. He has agreed a one year deal with the Promise Keepers.
In the playing department of Akwa United, the club has acquired 15 new experienced players for the up coming season comprising three goalkeepers, four defenders, four midfielders and four forwards players.
The players include; Goalkeepers:Itodo Akor (El-Kanemi), Bassey Akpan (Sunshine Stars), Adewale Adeyinka (Gombe Utd). Defenders are Ekemini Ukoebe (Lori FC), Sampson Gbadebo (Rivers Utd), Ali Chiwendu (Yobe Stars) David Philip (Go Round).
Those signed to marshal the Midfield are Samuel Mathias (Lobi Stars), Dare Ojo (Lobi Stars), Morice Chukwu (Go Round), Ifeanyi Ifeanyi (ES Setif).
Forwards are Christian Ekong (Delta Foece), Michael Ohanu (MFM), Ubong Friday (Lori FC) and Akarandut Orok
The Promise Keepers have registered a total of 35 players for the 2019/2020 football league season scheduled to kick-start on November 3, 2019
In a media chat, the new technical adviser of the Uyo based side noted that he has set a target of winning the NPFL title and the Aiteo cup.
He noted that he has been equipped with adequate insight about what is needed to improve the club especially through inputs from past coaches.
Obuh noted ” Everton worked under me in Ifeanyi Ubah. Maikaba worked under me in Kano Pillars for almost two seasons. So I have discussed with them about the club. Moreover, I have a very strong person within me. The little time I am with a team, the team will always be a very good team.”
Commenting about his philosophy of play, the new Head Coach said he appreciates a good level of stamina even as he also enjoys the Tiki-taka pattern of football which the promise keepers are known for.
On his part, the Chairman of Akwa United Football Club, Elder Paul Bassey assured that he will do his best to see his dream of lifting the league trophy come to pass.
He noted “We have gone for the best legs in the league. Put us in your prayers and be there to support us. With God on our side, the league trophy is coming to Akwa Ibom State.”
