By Aderonke Ojo
As part of measures to reward excellence, Lobi Stars Football Club Head Coach Abubakar Bala has promoted three talented players, Jacob Detso, Daniel Onu and Sani Audu, from their U-19 team to the senior squad after their impressive performance in the just concluded NPFL Youth Championship playoff held in Abia State.
The promoted players played an integral part that led to the Lobi Stars under-19 success during their tightly contested playoff in a group that was housing the likes of Enyimba International U-19, Rivers United U-19 and Rangers International, to emerge as champions.
They showcased their skills and qualities throughout the championship as they combined to score seven goals, eventually scoring in the playoff by the Lobi Stars youth team with Detso and Onu, scoring three goals each, while Audu scored one goal.
Coach Abubakar Bala expressed his excitement about the young players’ promotion, especially looking at their good performance and qualities on the pitch, which, according to him, would be vital for the senior team.
“These youngsters’ performance at the playoff was impressive and as part of my philosophy of developing talents, I have rewarded their hard work by promoting them to the senior team, I made a promise to the players before they departed for the championship playoff, and they did not disappoint and the promoted trio will be registered for the upcoming season”.
Lobi Stars Team Manager Lawrence Adoga, in his swift response, commended Coach Bala for taking a bold step by promoting these young future Stars to the senior team, assuring them of the club’s support.
“We’re excited to have them, and we’re confident they’ll make a significant impact”, he concluded.
Responding on behalf of the promoted players, Daniel Onu, who is also the captain of the U-19 team, thanked the club chairman, Dr Philip Nongu and others for granting them this wonderful opportunity, promising that they would do their best to make a positive impact on the senior team.
He also appreciated Coach Bala for believing in them, assuring him that they would deliver to desired result that Lobi Stars deserved to regain its rightful place.
The promoted players have already begun training with the senior team, with Sani Audu expected to join them soon. This move is a testament to Lobi Stars’ commitment to developing young talent and nurturing the next generation of football stars.