Maikaba assures readiness of players for league kickoff

Published on: 01 January 2023

Coach of Rangers International of Enugu, Abdu Maikaba his full of confidence going into the 2023 Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL season following their preparations.

The former league winner with Plateau United believes his side are in good shape and are ready to do well after putting their dismal performance off them in the NPFL preseason Super 4 tournament.

“Actually, I can say that we have reached the peak of our preparations and the boys are responding very well more especially after the shock in Lagos,”

“We needed to work harder and the boys have been giving their best to catch up with the level needed for the start of the season. I am very happy with the progress and I believe that we are very, very ready for the kickoff of the league on January 8, 2023,

I am happy with the progress and I believ that we are ready for the kickoff of the league slated to start on Jan. 8, 2023,” said Maikaba.

Following the relocation of the Flying Antelopes to the Awka City Stadium due to the rehabilitation of the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Maikaba believes it will not affect their performance.

“I think we played half of last season in Awka, Anambra and we did not lose any match but had three drawn games.

“That goes a long way to show that we adapted to the venue so easily and I believe we have won so many important games in Awka.

“We have gotten used to the place over time, just as the people there have gotten used to us and coming out in their numbers to support us during games.

I am sure, more will be coming out to support us in our games this time around.”

The former Plateau United gaffer targets a top three finish, but not overlooking winning the trophy.

“Finishing at the top three will give us a continental ticket but emerging the league champions is not out of our target.”

Rangers International will begin their 2023 NPFL season with an Oriental Derby in the offing against Abia Warriors in Akwa, Anambra State on 8 of January, 2023.

Uche Dozie

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