Football
They don’t pay footballers well in Egypt — Okechukwu
The Nigerian international playing for National Bank of Uzbekistan, Okechukwu Iwunze, spoke With ESTHER EGBE concerning his exploits in Egypt, the game and more. Excerpts
WHAT is your football plan for 2016?
My plans this season is to win highest goal scorer with my new club for a better career and to play for my beloved country. That will be a great joy for me that’s what every young player prays for to serve his fatherland.
How long have you been playing football?
I have been playing football for eight years now, its has been fruitful.
Where did you start from?
I started football at Callabar Rovers football club, before I moved from Dolphins to Egypt club.
How was it like playing for Dolphins FC?
It was a great joy for me, but I really enjoyed it, when we left the 2006/07 double FA Cup in Nigeria under Coach Ifeanyi Onyedika.
How long have you been with your new team?
I have been here for two months now; I just finished my contract in Egypt before coming here.
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There is no more Dolphins FC?
Yes, I was told recently that they have merged with Sharks football club to represent Rivers State. It’s now Rivers United football club. Yea but that’s the name when I played there.
What do you think we should change in our footballer?
It has been long I left Nigerian league but the only thing I think they needed most is to help Nigerian referee to a very good course. Not those days that if you have home match even if the players are well prepared for the match or not they must win their home match. Because referee must give out the three points to the home team.
How long did you play for Dolphins FC?
I worked for two seasons for Dolphins football club.
Do you think Nigeria needs foreign coach?
I think foreign coach will be better so that they can allow the coach to work. Because whenever they appoint a Nigerian as a coach, they will tell him what to do. Who to play and all that… so for me I prefer foreign coach.
What strikes you about the new environment?
Well it’s a very nice place. All I like about here is that they take care of foreigners very well. I think that’s the most important thing taking care of their players.
How long did you play for Egypt and why did you leave?
I played for Tanta football club in Egypt , it was a nice country, but they don’t pay well that’s why I didn’t renew my contract with them. I worked with them for three season, it was a wonderful experience.