Super Eagles head coach Stephen Keshi has stressed for the
umpteenth time that Fenerbahce of Turkey defender,Joseph Yobo remains the
national team
captain, despite his lengthy absence from Nigeria duty.
Yobo last represented Nigeria at the 2013 Africa Cup of
Nations final, leading the team to continental glory for only the third time in
their history.
The Super Eagles are currently on the verge of booking their
place at the 2014 World Cup finals,having been led by goalkeeper Vincent
Enyeama.
While Keshi has lauded the performance of the stand-in
skipper, he insists it is Yobo who is the regular leader of the team.
"There is only one captain of the Super Eagles and his
name is Joseph Yobo. Vincent (Enyeama) has been doing a great job in Joe's
absence but I am telling you now that he (Yobo) remains our captain and
leader," Keshi told SuperSport.
"Yobo gave his blood and sweat for the national team.
Since he made his debut for the Super Eagles in 2001, he has fought like a
Trojan and has been an example.
"He is one of the greatest leaders and servants of the
Nigerian game."
Reports previously claimed Keshi was 'jealous' of Yobo's
achievements, with the centre-back just five appearances shy of reaching a
milestone century for the Super Eagles, and although initially irritated by the
claims, the tactician in now able to laugh off those suggestions.
Keshi added: "When people speculate about things they
don't know, one can get angry but after sometime, you just have to remain
philosophical about it. How can I be jealous of a player who I still see as my
son?
"The so-called issues I have with Yobo sadly are a
creation of some sections of the media.
"Yobo and I speak all the time. In fact, we have spoken
about three times this past month and he wished the team well.
"Yobo knows I love and respect him and all his
achievements for the national team.
"He will earn his 100 caps as long as I remain coach of
the Super Eagles."
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