Rangers International Technical Adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has dismissed rumours about his future and denied any tensions within his backroom staff ahead of Sunday’s Nigeria Premier football league clash with Bayelsa United in Enugu.
Speaking at a pre-match briefing in Enugu, Ilechukwu praised his assistant coaches and stressed the unity within the technical crew.
“My assistants are like family. We eat together, work together, and support each other. People outside may misinterpret things, but inside we are united,” he said.
Ilechukwu also expressed full confidence in Chief Coach Ekenederichukwu Eke, noting that he takes charge whenever Ilechukwu is away on national team duties as a Super Eagles assistant coach.
“In my absence, my assistant can lead the team and win matches. That is what good leadership means, training people to take over when you’re not there,” he added.
Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
On his own career, the coach reflected on his journey and achievements, responding to exit rumours:
“All those things are not true… it’s not possible, I have a contract with Rangers. In all the clubs I’ve worked, I finished my contract and I’ve never been sacked anywhere”
A former coach of Plateau United, MFM, and Heartland, Ilechukwu won his first NPFL title in his debut season with Rangers as technical adviser. He is now in his third season after signing a contract extension last year.
Despite a mixed second season, where Rangers finished 10th with 52 points winning 14 matches, drawing 10, and losing 14 he remains focused on success. During his title-winning debut season, Rangers collected 71 points with 21 wins, 7 draws, and 10 losses, and reached the semi-finals of the Federation Cup.
The coach also backed midfielder Kenechukwu Agu, describing him as “the best in the league” and confirming he will start on Sunday.
“He is one of the best passers in the league. Sometimes we start him, other times he comes from the bench to avoid being predictable. But he will start on Sunday,” he said.
Photo Credit: Rangers/X
Agu, 26, has scored 2 goals and registered 1 assist in 8 NPFL matches this season, including a brilliant free kick in the Oriental Derby loss to Enyimba. The midfielder has played 115 matches for the Flying Antelopes, scoring 17 goals and providing 10 assists.
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On the upcoming fixture, Ilechukwu confirmed the squad is healthy and ready.
“We have trained well and the players understand what is at stake. Bayelsa United are not a team to underestimate. We expect a difficult match, but I believe we will have a good game on Sunday,” he said.
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Rangers, eighth on 22 points, will host Bayelsa United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Sunday.
