Following Ayoola Adeleke’s bold declaration of his return as a goalkeeper, current Edo Sports Writers Association of Nigeria shot-stopper Precious Nath has issued a fiery response, one that leaves no room for doubt about who owns the number one jersey.
In a response on Saturday evening via Silverbird’s Rhythm 93.7fm Sport Card, while dripping with confidence (and maybe just a hint of friendly intimidation), Nath welcomed the challenge—but made it clear he’s not stepping aside.
“Anybody who wants to come out of retirement to challenge for my jersey will possibly have an ACL injury,” Nath quipped. “I accept your challenge for the goalkeeping position. I will start, and you will be on the bench. I am the chosen one.”
It seems Adeleke’s return might not be as smooth as he hoped. While he is ready to show off his “good hands” and powerful right foot, he now faces a tough battle against an incumbent goalkeeper who has no plans of warming the bench.
With Edo SWAN training yet to resume, the battle for the gloves is set to be one of the biggest storylines of the year as to who the coach of the side, Joseph Isokpehi will use between the sticks.