Ranchers Bees FC of Kaduna are facing a hectic battle in their attempt to retain former under-23 national team goalkeeper, Emmanuel Shinkut Daniel for their return to the Nigerian Premier League (NPFL) next season, Sports247 reports.
Although Daniel was part of The Bees’ squad that placed third at the recent Nigerian National League (NNL) in Ikenne, Ogun State, it was gathered that his contract has come to an end and he is set to leave.
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The vastly experienced shot-stopper, who has featured for Lobi Stars of Makurdi, Rangers International of Enugu, Enyimba of Aba and Warri Wolves, joined Ranchers at the start of 2025 to boost their NPFL aspirations.
However, having succeeded in the target of helping his home-town club return to the top-flight after 18 years’ absence, the star from Southern Kaduna, who was Nigeria’s first choice at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, is ready to move on.
Daniel, who also had a short stint at Orlando Pirates of South, was in goal for Ranchers in their first two matches of the 2026 NNL at Remo Stars Stadium, which they lost 1-0 to Sporting Lagos and 2-0 versus Inter Lagos.
He was, however, rested for their dead-rubber tie against Doma United of Gombe and the team surprisingly won 3-1 to finish third on the final table, thereby raising doubt about the confidence level of Coach Ahmed Ahmad and his crew in him.
Dramatically, though, while speaking to Sports247 about his status in the club, Daniel downplayed any misgivings and declared emphatically that he has enjoyed his stay with the team that is now owned by Spain-based striker, Umar Sadiq.
“I’m happy with the club and I am glad they gave me the chance to resurrect myself in the Nigerian league. We have gained promotion to the Premier League and we are already making plans for the new season together,” Daniel said.
Sports247 gathered further that the 32-year-old net minder was also in goal for the Olympic Eagles during the 2015 African Games and was initially invited to the Super Eagles for a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Zambia.
He could be on his way back to the national team after catching the eye of Eagles’ current coach, Eric Sekou Chelle, who watched the NNL Super-4 opening game on Monday and whispered some encouraging words to his aides about Daniel.
 next season, Sports247 reports.){kind=link}