Former Super Eagles captain, Joseph Ikpo Yobo has disclosed that he is bracing up for the task of working as an assistant coach in the Nigerian national team, but admits his process of getting his coaching license has been delayed by the novel coronavirus pandemic.
The ex-Michelin of Port Harcourt, Standard Liege of Belgium, Olympique Marseille of France, Everton and Norwich City of England as well as former Fernebahce of Turkey stopper pointed out that he has been forced to delay getting certified for the job, but enthused that, when he eventually joins the crew, he would instill into the team consistency, motivation and inspiration.
The 40-year-old former defender also reckoned during Mega Sports on Star 101.5 FM, Lagos that the high level of experience he gained in a career that spanned 15 years in various club and national team competitions, plus what he has been able to pick up as an analyst as well as studying online, will help him when the time comes.
Yobo expatiated: “I was already in the process of getting my coaching license, but everything was slowed down by the suspension of all activities, caused by coronavirus. I was hoping to get something going before the camp opens, but everything has now been put on hold.
“Football cannot go on in a condition like this. We will see what happens after the pandemic is over. I am in touch with the coach, we have discussed and I know the areas in which I will be of service to the team. I will be able to bring my experience and human relations abilities into the team. It was long ago that one of the coaches told me I will be a good coach in future.
“All the same, I am still studying on line, and reading some papers that I have been able to get about coaching, and I hope to be ready when the camp eventually opens. As the case is, though, I am sure that the experience I gained as a player will help me when my duty as an assistant coach starts in the Nigerian team, and I wwill be able to play my own part in the crew.
“I appreciate the coach who said that long time ago. He is a legend of the game, and for him to have seen the leadership qualities in me so long ago told me something about myself. I believe it is what the national team will now gain from me when we eventually get together.
“I am bringing back that motivation. As a former captain, I’m bringing inspiration. I’ve been there and I’ve done it all. I’ve been a fan of the team before I became an assistant coach, so I’ve seen from a fanatical point of view how people feel when they are watching the team. I’ve been a pundit; I’ve given my opinion about what should be done in the team.”
