Connect with us

Nigeria Premier League

There’s a twist’ – Springbok hopeful rejects South African homecoming

Published

on

Ruan Ackermann will not be returning to South Africa after signing a contract extension with Premiership club Gloucester Rugby.

 

The powerhouse forward’s contract was expiring at the end of the current season and looked set to return to South Africa but has instead opted to remain in the West Country.

 

The Sharks and his former employers, the Lions, were two of the teams that Ackerman was reportedly in talks with, but ultimately, he decided to remain at the club he joined back in 2017.

“I miss playing in South Africa, I see the stadiums are getting more and more full,” Ackermann told Afrikaans newspaper Rapport in January.

 

But on Thursday, Gloucester and Ackermann revealed that the player had changed his mind.

 

“There is a little twist, I can’t see myself leaving yet, I want to stay on, so we are staying on,” he said in an interview confirming his extension.

 

He added: “The players, the staff, the people, the coaches, everyone has been really good to me. It’s basically like a second home, so that’s what makes things, when it comes to a decision, so tough.”

His re-signing with the Premiership side means that he will head into his eighth season at Gloucester this year, having arrived along with his father Johan, who was head coach at the time.

 

The Kingsholm favourite is consistently one of the top players in the Premiership for carries and metres made and was voted Gloucester Rugby’s Players’ Player of the Season for 2021/22.

 

His ability to play across the back-row, and even at lock, is a huge asset for the Cherry and Whites, with director of rugby, George Skivington, hailing the club’s ability to retain his services.

 

“There was lots of competition for Ruan’s signature, so it’s a huge coup for the Club,” Skivington said.

 

“Ruan has been fantastic for us and to have a player of his quality committing his future to the Club is a massive statement of trust in the direction we are heading in.

 

“Everyone at Gloucester Rugby is delighted that Ruan will be in Cherry & White next season.”

International ambitions

Ackermann is qualified to represent England through residency and his potential move back to South Africa was seen as an attempt to better his chances of cracking the Springboks squad.

 

In fact, he was reportedly on the cusp of making the Red Rose squad before injury struck and ruled him out of the World Cup and a debut in the England jersey.

 

However, he still hopes to make it on the international stage.

 

“I just want to play at the highest level, it’s a dream of mine, but the Springboks are my first choice,” he said in an interview in January.

 

“I feel like I have been here [England] long enough to prove myself, and that chance or option never came. I think they have their eyes on other players.”

 

Author

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Nigeria Premier League

Ahmed Musa Donates ₦500,000 Each To Kano Pillars, Mighty Teams

Published

on

Ahmed Musa Donates ₦500,000 Each To Kano Pillars, Mighty Teams

According to govima.com, Nigeria’s Super Eagles Icon, Ahmed Musa, has generously donated ₦500,000 each to the players of Kano Pillars FC Under-19 team and Mighty Jets Under-19 team. This gesture was in recognition of their impressive performances in the ongoing inaugural Under-19 Youth League.

The donation followed Kano Pillars Under-19’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Mighty Jets in a highly competitive match held on Tuesday at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano. The game showcased remarkable skill and determination from both sides, highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s budding football talents.

Musa, Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer in the FIFA World Cup, personally attended the match alongside his Kano Pillars teammates. He stayed to witness the conclusion of the Youth League fixture before joining his team’s training session in preparation for their Nigeria Premier Football League Match Day 13 clash against Lobi Stars.

Known for his leadership both on and off the pitch, Musa continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration. Since rejoining Kano Pillars, he has been instrumental in the team’s performance, contributing to 95% of their goals this season. Over the weekend, he scored his fifth goal of the season, a powerful header against Heartland FC, while also providing three assists and winning three penalties for his side.

Musa’s commitment to grassroots football development was evident in this latest act of generosity, which aims to motivate young players to pursue excellence. The Under-19 Youth League, a platform designed to uncover future stars, aligns perfectly with his vision for the growth of Nigerian football.

As Kano Pillars prepare to face Lobi Stars at the Lafia City Stadium on Saturday, fans are hopeful that Musa’s leadership and stellar form will continue to drive the four-time Nigerian champions towards success.

Ahmed Musa’s unwavering dedication to supporting the sport at all levels underscores his enduring legacy in Nigerian football, making him a role model for the next generation of players. His contributions, both financial and motivational, remain unparalleled, cementing his place as a true ambassador of the game.

 

Author

Continue Reading

Nigeria Premier League

Shehu Abdullahi : The Maestro’s Midfield Magic

Published

on

By Abdul A Kaugama

Shehu Abdullahi’s outstanding performance in Kano Pillars’ recent match has left fans and critics in awe. The midfielder’s clinical work and vision on the pitch prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian football.

With precision passing and exceptional control, Shehu dictated the pace of the game, showcasing his mastery of the midfield.

His experience and skill were evident as he effortlessly navigated the opposition’s defense. The fans’ electrifying energy was matched only by Shehu’s infectious passion for the game.

Shehu’s resurgence is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His display of top-notch football skills is a clarion call for his return to the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s national team needs his expertise and leadership to excel on the international stage.

In conclusion, Shehu Abdullahi’s impressive form is a welcome development for Nigerian football. As he continues to dazzle fans with his midfield magic, we eagerly anticipate his next move.
May Allah continue to bless Shehu Abdullahi with strength, wisdom, and success in his football career.

Source: Facebook

Author

Continue Reading

Nigeria Premier League

Lobi Stars Face Sunshine in Ijebu Ode in NPFL Matchday 12 Clash

Published

on

Lobi Stars Face Sunshine in Ijebu Ode in NPFL Matchday 12 Clash

Following the team’s recent victory over Abia Warriors, Lobi Stars’ head coach, Mika Lönnström, has urged his team to maintain momentum as they aim to exit the relegation zone against Sunshine Stars.

A full-strength squad, including Ossy Martins, and Emmanuel Nnaji, will travel to Ijebu Ode, while Moses Tsehuan, Itodo Akor, and Samuel Tiza remain sidelined due to injury.

The two teams have a history of home wins, with Lobi Stars securing a 3-2 home victory in their previous encounter in Lafia, while Sunshine Stars won 2-0 in a reverse in Akure.

Key players to watch include Ossy Martins, Segun Olorintoba, and Sunshine Stars’ trio of David Obiazo, Seth Mayi, and Tunde Sodiq.

Dipo Dino International Stadium will host the highly anticipated match.

Author

Continue Reading

Trending