Rangers International, a Nigeria Professional Football League side, have confirmed a massive clear out of unproductive players in their fold as the Coal City Flying Antelopes shift focus to the 2019/2020 domestic and continental campaigns, Completesports.com reports.
Rangers issued a statement on Monday announcing the retention of 22 players ahead the coming season.
Although the 2018 Aiteo Cup champions were not forthcoming on the number of players shown the exit door in the current clear out exercise, there are suggestions that no fewer than 23 players were eased out following inside sources’ revelation that the club has no less than 45 players on their roaster.
Prince Davidson Owumi, General Manager of Rangers, said in a release on Monday that 22 players have been retained and that they have equally been contacted while they are still on a two week break.
The former NPL and Warri Wolves boss confirmed that the players whose services were needed for the coming season have been contacted and are expected back in the coal city next week.
“Yes, we have started preparations for the coming season as we have made contacts with the players needed to help us achieve our target both on the continent and domestic scene,” Owumi, nicknamed ‘Okada Air’ during his playing days said.
“Only twenty-two of the players that featured for us in the concluded season will be privileged to wear the club’s jersey in the coming season.
“Most of them have been reached and negotiations already concluded. Those reached will be known as soon as they return from the break”.
The Rangers boss added that the club have held successful transfer talks with new players with whom they intend to bolster the squad.
“I can also confirm that we have had successful discussions with some players that we hope will add some strength to the team as our target on the continent and domestic scene remain intact.”
Rangers ended the 2018/2019 NPFL abridged season on third position at the end of the championship play-offs to seal a ticket to the 2019/2020 CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
By Sab Osuji
