Technical Manager of Heartland FC, Emmanuel Amuneke, MFR, has stated that he does not believe in quitting any assignment he undertakes, Completesports.com reports.
The 1995 African Footballer of the Year and 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games men’s football gold medalist made this declaration on Sunday after Heartland’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, in an NPFL matchday 20 fixture. Heartland’s victory ended their five-game winless streak, placing them 11th on the NPFL table with 25 points.
The former coach of Tanzania’s national team, Taifa Stars, spoke in response to Daniel Amokachi’s revelation that Amuneke had encouraged him not to quit as Lobi Stars’ technical head after their matchday 19 clash at the Lafia City Stadium.
John Bassey, making his Heartland debut after a January loan move from Bayelsa United, scored the decisive goal in the 58th minute.
Also Read: NPFL: ‘Amuneke Talked Me Out Of Quitting Lobi Stars Job’ –Amokachi
“Dan (Amokachi), if we’re in a country where we don’t value our stars—ex-players who have done so much for the country—I think it’s very unfortunate,” said the former FC Barcelona winger.
“So, if Dan (Amokachi) left all that he was doing to come here and coach Lobi Stars, I believe he deserves respect. The club management needs to support him. Of course, I encouraged him not to quit but to stay.
“I’m someone who doesn’t believe in quitting. That’s my mentality because I understand that the journey of life is a process. There will be moments of difficulty and success, but how you manage both is critical to moving forward.
“Quitting isn’t the best option. Whether winning or not, we can see Dan’s experience and what he’s bringing to the team. He’s building a strong side at Lobi Stars, and we should recognise and acknowledge his efforts,” Amuneke said.
The former Zanaco of Zambia coach also explained why he brought in experienced players to strengthen his team, despite starting the 2024/25 NPFL season with academy players.
“This isn’t a deviation from my youth-focused policy. It’s about ensuring balance in the squad,” Amuneke said.
“In Nigeria, we don’t have sustainable plans for youth development. We raised players like Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and Wilfred Ndidi in 2015 and 2013, but these players are ageing now.
Also Read: NPFL: Sunshine Stars Coach Akinfolarin Savours Derby Win Over Ikorodu City
“So, who can we boast of for the future? When I arrived here at Heartland, I understood the club’s situation and the need for a different direction. People may expect immediate results, but we must focus on building stability, which includes encouraging young players.
“Some adapt quicker than others, but in one or two years, these young players will develop into big names.”
Reflecting on the match, Amuneke praised his team’s ability to seize the moment and secure victory.
“We always aim to win our games, but plans don’t always work out. I must also recognise my brother, Daniel Amokachi. We’ve worked together for years to elevate Nigerian football. Now, seeing him contribute to our league is a pleasure.
“Lobi Stars are a highly tactical side. We saw their potential in the first leg in Lafia. Today, we knew we just needed one goal and strong defence, and that’s what we achieved.”
Heartland will face Enyimba in an Oriental Derby on Wednesday. Lobi Stars, with 20 points, sit 18th and will travel to face Akwa United at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.
By Sab Osuji
1 Comment
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