Enyimba’s Assistant Head Coach, Yemi Olanrewaju, addressed the media in a post-match interview following their 1-0 defeat against Plateau United in the NPFL on Saturday.
Despite the loss, Olanrewaju expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing their continuous improvement.
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“The performance was very good. I’m impressed with the way my boys played today. For us, it’s all about how we improve every day,” Olanrewaju stated.
He commended the team’s preparation for the game, highlighting their successful implementation of high-pressing tactics that forced Plateau United into resorting to long balls.
Speaking on the injury crisis affecting the team, Olanrewaju acknowledged the presence of numerous young players due to several first-team members being sidelined.
He sees this as an opportunity for the young talents to prove themselves at this level. Despite the challenges, he remains optimistic, stating, “Injury is part of the game, and we are going to have that challenge. For me, it’s one of those things. We will keep pushing.”
The absence of Head Coach Finidi George and captain Ojo Olrunleke, currently in Cote d’Ivoire for the African Cup of Nations, was also addressed.
Olanrewaju highlighted the positive impact of having them around but emphasized the team’s adaptability to their absence. “We have a game model that we play with, whether they are around or not. And this is not the first time they won’t be around,” he explained.
Regarding Enyimba‘s overall performance in the league, Olanrewaju acknowledged the challenges faced with a new management setup and the influx of new players.
He emphasized the need for recruitment, particularly in the striking department, to enhance the team’s title-retention aspirations.
“In the second round, I think we need to do one or two recruitments to our front line. Hopefully, we get two or three strikers to come into the squad to help us push for the title,” he outlined.
Looking ahead to the outstanding game against Katsina United mid-week, Olanrewaju affirmed Enyimba’s unwavering ambition to win. He emphasized the importance of playing good football for the development and improvement of the young players. “For us, it’s beyond three points; it is about the improvement of the boys and preparing them for the challenges ahead,” he concluded.
In summary, Olanrewaju’s insights provide a comprehensive view of Enyimba’s current challenges, strategic plans, and unwavering determination to overcome hurdles in its quest for success in the NPFL.
