NPL Plans Regular Training For Coaches

The Nigeria Premier League (NPL) has urged clubs within its purview to boost the profile of their team with quality players for a better performance at continental competitions.

The NPL’s Acting Executive Secretary, Tunji Babalola told newsmen in Lagos, that the body would provide adequate support for the country’s representative in continental competitions.

Babalola debunked the notion that the country’s club sides, that recently got eliminated from the ongoing CAF Champions League and the Confederation Cup were humiliated, was a misplaced claim.

“What the clubs needed to do in subsequent editions of the continental competitions was for them to reinforce their teams with quality and experienced players.

“On the part of the NPL we are trying to support them in terms of logistics, for instance we make sure their domestic league competition does not clash with their departure dates for continental assignments..

“It’s quite unfortunate that we are out, but we still need to appreciate the fact that they tried their best, they were not disgraced; no matter the level of preparation a team must win and a team must lose.’’ Babalola said.

When asked whether the elimination of Dolphins FC of Port Harcourt, the defending champion of the NPL does not question the authenticity of their status as defending champion, he said the question was out of place.

“You can’t conclude based on this, for instance Chelsea did not perform well in their domestic league, but they have performed well at the Champion’s League which brings me back to the luck factor.

He added that current developments in football had made it mandatory for coaches to develop themselves, in order to keep abreast with the contemporary demands of the game.