How injury ruined my World Cup in Colombia- Terry Envoh

Envoh a lot was expected from you at the just concluded FIFA U-20 World Cup but you didn’t get to play. What happened? I had a thigh injury and that stopped me from playing. I had received serious medical attention so there was the confidence that I would recover fully before the commencement of the […]

Envoh a lot was expected from you at the just concluded FIFA U-20 World Cup but you didn’t get to play. What happened?

I had a thigh injury and that stopped me from playing. I had received serious medical attention so there was the confidence that I would recover fully before the commencement of the championship, unfortunately, it did not work out that way and I had to sit on the bench.

How disappointed were you that you did not play?

It was a sad moment for me because I felt very bad going to the world cup and not playing. I felt so disappointed but I refused to get weighed down by the circumstances because I have learnt to give glory to God in all situations. It was a huge disappointment but God knows why.

How did you come about the injury that knocked you out of the junior World Cup?

I sustained the injury during the team’s training tour in Portugal. It was in our match against the U-20 national team of Portugal. I got a knock but I never knew it would knock me out of the World Cup.

What thoughts occupied your mind during the Championship?

In fact I thought of so many things through out the championship. I kept asking why why God why must it be now. You know I have never had any serious injury through out my career. I have not experienced this kind of injury why now during the big tournament of my life and sitting at stand watching… I was not happy.

Did you at any point feel like risking your injury by taking part in the championship?

Yes, so many times. I tried risking my injury during the training sessions so that everyone will see that I was okay but the pain on my right thigh was so severe that I was always in tears.

What do you think you would have contributed to the team?

With GOD on my side I always make a difference and I know without the injury, I would have contributed my own quota and who knows; maybe another goal from me would have kept us in the World Cup. But like I said earlier, God knows why I was injured at that crucial moment

What did the Nigeria Football Federation do to help you recover?

The NFF have tried so much for me. They ensured I was treated by the team’s medical crew at list three times a day. I really appreciate the NFF officials for their love and care towards in Colombia.

What is the present condition of your injury?

I was not finding it easy then, I was in deep pains and I know that ALMIGHTY GOD knows about my situation and He is the great healer. I decided to pray without ceasing and asking Him to intervene in my situation and He answered me. I have recovered now. What is left is for me to regain full fitness.

What is your own assessment of your colleagues who got the opportunity to play?

All my colleagues did very well. We all showed the required commitment. One thing that impressed me so much was the unity in the team.

What would you say was the team’s toughest game and why?

For me it was the match against France because our key players were fasting then and the match was played under sun. It was a difficult moment for everyone.

What was the easiest match and why do you say so?

The easiest match was against Saudi Arabia because we had qualified for the second round and so the match was played without tension.

Which of your team mates impressed you most and why?

Edafe Egbedi because most people said he is not playing for any club but with his performance at Colombia I was very very happy. He sufficiently justified his inclusion in the team.

Is there any member of the team that did not live up to your expectations?

No, everyone did his best… I am always happy with the team.

Did you miss any of your team mates at the World Cup? You will recall that not all of them went to Colombia.

Yes I do… great players like Chidi Osuchukwu, Stanley Okoro, Gbenga Arokoyo and Aliyu Goyi.

The debate is on as to whether or not Obuh should remain as U-20 coach. What is your take on this?

Coach John Obuh is a great man with a difference. He is always serious with his job. I had not met him anywhere until U-17 and he has been a blessing to me and many others. I am always proud of him and he should be left to continue with the U-20

Any plans to go and play professional football abroad?

That’s always my prayers and I know that very soon GOD will take me there.

Finally what can you say stopped Flying Eagles from reaching the finals of the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup?

The Flying Eagles did very well at the just concluded U-20 world cup at Colombia 2011, it is only God that knows why we did not reach the finals.