Otekpa: Playing for Pillars is a different ball game

How ready is your club for this year’s Super 4 competition?We have been training. We moved from Kano to Kaduna where we have been preparing. We want to use the tournament to prepare for the CAF Champions League. Furthermore, we are going to use the tournament to understand one another. You know we have got […]

How ready is your club for this year’s Super 4 competition?
We have been training. We moved from Kano to Kaduna where we have been preparing. We want to use the tournament to prepare for the CAF Champions League. Furthermore, we are going to use the tournament to understand one another. You know we have got some new players so it will be important for us to blend before the commencement of the Champions League.
Last year, Pillars exited the Champions League at the preliminary round. What would you say was responsible?
The truth of the matter is that last year we did not prepare well and that was why we were eliminated so early. We have learnt our lesson and this time it is going to be different. We have started preparations and I think we shall get it right this time.
Apart from early preparation, would you say Pillars have got the right players for the assignment?
Yeah we have got some quality additions to the team. Some of the best players in the country have come over to join us so we are brimming with confidence. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, we are going to present a formidable squad in both the CAF Champions League and the domestic league.
Would you say the management of Pillars is providing the right environment for the team to excel?
Sure, this is one of the best organised clubs in the country and it all credit goes to the management. Those managing the club are doing a fantastic job. They are always ready to go the extra mile for us. They are always up and doing.
You said Pillars have recruited some of the best players in the country. Are you not afraid of losing your position in the team?
No I am not scared because in a team you may have two or three players playing in the same position. However, if you are not fit or in good form, they will pick another person to play. So I do not have any hard feelings when someone else is called upon to play in my position. I will keep doing my best to retain my position in the club.
You were mentioned among players that would leave Pillars but you are still around what happened?
I don’t know what is happening. We had clubs that came looking for us but it did not work out. So we are still here and I don’t have any problems. There is time for everything.
You played for the senior national team under Coach Eguavoen but since Keshi came, you have not got any invitation. Have you given up?
No, No, I can’t give up just like that. When keshi came in, he asked about me but by then, I was suppose to go for an operation. Since then, he has been inviting players but he is yet to invite me. I know everything is a matter of time. Maybe one day my name will come into his head again.
Maybe your switch to Pillars is what you need to be recognised again…
I think so too. I am playing regularly for Pillars and I think this will boost my chances of paying for Super Eagles again.
How is it like playing for Kano Pillars?
I played for Lobi Stars and Enyimba FC but playing for Kano Pillars is a different ball game. I tell you Pillars are well organised and well motivated. The fan base alone is something else. I am very happy playing for Pillars.
How cordial is your relationship with Coach Emordi?
I am enjoying a cordial relationship with Coach Okey Emordi. Remember I worked with him in Enyimba. He influenced my move to Pillars. It is good to work under a coach that knows your worth. He knows my worth and I do my best to give him what he wants on the field of play.
What is your assessment of officiating in the past season?
Officiating has improved. They are doing their best now. This explains why away victories and draws were recorded in some matches. I pray they should continue like that. The referees should just keep it up. Everybody is watching so they should keep up the good work.
Every talented player’s ambition is to play professional football abroad. Are you worried that you are still playing at home?
I am worried but they say if anything God gives to you, you take it with happiness. I am happy playing in Nigeria but I also want to play professional football abroad. My time will come.
What advice do you have for local players who rush into contracts with foreign clubs?
My advice is that they should wait for their time. They should not go and fall in the wrong hands where they would suffer for a long time. Look well before you leap is all I can tell those who want to move out.
What is your dream club?
Manchester United is my dream club. I am a fan of the club and if I have the opportunity to play there I would be happy.
Who is your role model?
Xavi Alonso who once played for Liverpool and Real Madrid is my role model. I try to play him. I like the way he switches play.