A Lagos-based grassroots footballer, Abubakar Saidi has revealed his dramatic life story, which is filled with experience gained from many far-flung locations.
Saidi provided details of his connection to many places while speaking with Sports247 after emerging as the most promising player in the under-20 squad of FROLTISH Football Academy of Ijesha Express, Lagos.
Saidi was among the many youngsters that the academy’s head coach and technical director, Umoette Athan (aka Lapa) flaunted in front of esteemed guests during the team’s end of year party.
‘Lapa’ disclosed that Saidi is a rare talent who has defied difficult family matters in order to excel as a footballer and is already following in the footsteps of his biggest product to date, former Super Eagles midfielder, John Ugochukwu Ogu (aka Suker).
Saidi stated afterwards that he was happy with the sweet words his coach spoke about him and promised to work harder in order not to be a disappointment for those who are looking up to him.
“I hail from Gamzo in Kano State, but I was born in Agbor, which is in Delta State. I can speak Hausa, but I can’t speak Igbo, and I am proud of my origins.
“I play as a left winger and midfielder, which makes me difficult to mark when I’m playing on the field. I played for four years in Ghana before moving to Lagos in 2013.
“I initially played for Sporting FC before I saw what Coach Lapa was doing at Olympic Field, and how young players were learning well under him.
“That’s why I decided to join his team, and I am happy that he allowed me to join them. Now I am getting more exposure as a young player who is still growing,” Saidi disclosed.
