Technical Manager of Heartland FC, Emmanuel Amuneke, MFR, has emphasised the importance of collective effort in restoring the once-feared Naze Millionaires to the pinnacle of Nigerian domestic football and beyond, Completesports.com reports.
The former African Player of the Year feels privileged to lead the team, stating that the club belongs to all citizens of Imo State.
The soft-spoken, 53-year-old former Tanzania national team coach and ex-FC Barcelona winger spoke following his team’s hard-fought 1-0 win over Remo Stars in Owerri, a crucial victory that lifted the team to 16th in the NPFL standings.
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“Nothing in life happens without process. We’re in a process at the moment. All we need now is patience to continue growing as players and as a team,” said the former Zamalek left-winger and 1994 AFCON winner.
“This team is for the people of Imo; it’s not about Emma Amuneke. Coming from Imo, it’s a pleasure and a privilege for me to serve my people.
“What I owe my people is truth, honesty, and hard work, and that’s what I am committed to deliver.”
Heartland were without influential centre-back Christian Molokwu in the vital win against Remo Stars. Molokwu sustained a slight knee injury during the Match Day 8 clash against Bayelsa United, where the five-time NPFL champions suffered a frustrating 1-0 loss.
Amuneke explained Molokwu’s absence, saying he had to bring in a replacement, with most of his Match Day 9 starting line-up being left-footed players.
“Molokwu was injured in our last game (against Bayelsa United in Yenagoa), so we had to bring in other players, most of whom are left-footed,” he explained.
“Some might struggle with the scenario, but they managed it well. There’s no magic; it’s all about hard work.
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“I know that in Africa, we often want quick fixes, but with the experience I have gained, I understand that nothing happens in life without a process.”
Heartland will face Abia Warriors in Umuahia on Sunday in a Match Day 10 fixture, marking their second Oriental Derby of the 2024/2025 NPFL season. Abia Warriors head into the clash in high spirits following their 1-0 win over Insurance of Benin at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Saturday.
Amuneke looks forward to the intense contest, which he views as a duel between two experienced and friendly coaches.
“We’re professionals. Imama (Amapakabo) is a friend, and he has a professional duty to lead his team, just as I have to lead mine.
“All we need to do now is analyse their team closely, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and find ways to adapt to them,” Amuneke explained.
By Sab Osuji
