Kano Pillars midfielder, Ikenna Paul Hilary has declared that the recent fad of foreign-based players returning home to star in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) is an encouraging and welcome development for the domestic championship.
The former home-based Eagles star, who was part of the CHAN 2014 bronze medal winning team handled by late Stephen Keshi, reckoned in a chat with sports247.ng that there is no shame in Nigerian players returning home from abroad and play in the NPFL.
Ikenna reckoned that such steps would not help the players keep fit and remain relevant, while also getting a footing before hanging their boots, it also adds glamour to the league.
Ikenna disclosed that he also returned to the NPFL from Europe after a messy work permit brouhaha with his last European team in Maklta and other botched eals in Spain and Portugal.
Sports247.ng can report that he is one of several names who are in the NPFL at present, after making the u-turn in the careers.
The latest to follow that route is former Sharks of Port Harcourt left-back, Juwon Oshaniwa, who was part of the Super Eagles squad to Brazil 2014 World Cup and could feature for Akwa United of Uyo next season in the NPFL.
In reaction, Ikenna submitted: “Returning home isn’t a low thing to do by any player who started from the domestic league stage.
“It is another way to keep fit, stay relevant and help to gain a new footing before finally hanging your boots.”
