BY SUNDAY AKINTOYE
Fourteen- year- old player, Richard Jeremiah of JP Young Stars Football Club made his soccer debut in the ongoing Badagry Divisional Football League taking place across the designated centres in the division.
Unfortunately Jeremiah’s club lost 1-2 to Tico Football Club Friday at the Asiribo playground, Badagry Expressway, Lagos. This defeat confirmed the team’s elimination in the group stage having won one point on the table with one match to play.
Jeremiah who is a SS 1 student at Stella Guide College did not only give good account of himself against their opponents but showed that he is a complete midfielder who has brighter future ahead of him.
His accurate passes and markmanship were noticed by the fans. His football skills cannot be compared to other footballers on the field of play.
Jeremiah knows how to win a ball and dribbles when it is needed. He hardly complain and always focused while playing for his club.
While chatting with our correspondent after the match, Jeremiah said he was disappointed that his team were eliminated but applauded himself for good performance.
“Unfortunately, we were eliminated but I am happy that I gave a good account of myself. I am the youngest player among my colleagues but I was able to give my opponents a good run for their money throughout the encounter,” he said.
Asked which club he wants to start his professional career, the dark skinned player said he prefers to start with any professional club in Nigeria, but he admires Manchester City in the English Premier League as his future club.
“For now I am focusing on JP Young Stars. If I want to start my professional career, I don’t mind playing for any Nigerian professional club. If you asked me which club I admire to play for in Europe, I like Manchester City because of their pattern of play in the Premiership,” he said.
Jeremiah started his football career with JP Young Stars at tender age. He is very grateful to his coach, Joseph Whesu for mentoring and nurturing him to the stardom.
“I cannot forget my coach, Whesu for his efforts on me and believing in my ability. He has been given me chances to showcase my talents and I did not disappoint him,” said Jeremiah, who thanked his teammates for the support giving to him during their training sessions.
While speaking, JP Young Stars Coach, Whesu described Jeremiah as a committed and discplined player, adding that his young player has brighter future ahead of him.
“It is one of the youngest players in the club and Jeremiah can compete with his teammates in my team. He has so much skills which makes him an outstanding player among his peers,” he said.