ACTUALITE |
14.07.2002
Agali slams Nigeria`s FA
Victor Agali has said he is furious over the poor treatment that members of the national team receive from the Nigeria Football Association (NFA).
The German based striker, who has scored seven goals in 10 appearances for the Super Eagles, has warned that many European- based players would shun the national team if the FA fails to change its attitude.
"The Football Association does not appreciate the sacrifices that players make for the national team," the Schalke 04 player told BBC Sport Online.
"During the World Cup qualification series, I had a lot of problems with my club because I was serving my country and missing crucial games.
"But the FA never treats players with respect.
"As a result, I have no choice than to stay away from the national team for now."
Agali said the NFA has not refunded the money that he spent on a flight to Australia for the 2000 Olympics.
"According to a letter from the NFA, I was told that I should fly to the camp and I would be paid on arrival.
"Up to this moment, nothing has been done about it.
"But I never spoke out on the matter because I took it as a sacrifice that one has to make for his country."
Agali, who was excluded from Nigeria`s World Cup team, supports the recruitment of a foreign coach.
He said indigenous coaches lack character and the ability to withstand interference from FA and sports ministry officials on team selection matters.
"Indigenous coaches cannot control players when things go wrong and lack the ability to withstand pressure from officials who want them to pick certain players."
"I really do not see them taking Nigerian football anywhere."
Agali said the appointment of a competent foreign coach and the re-organisation of the NFA could influence a change of mind on his recent decision.
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Hits: 1 | Source:BBC | |
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