| |  Nigeria Home Page | | | | YAKUBU HITS A YAK-TRICK! |  FULHAM'S WAGS can trust their other halves more than any in the Premier League — they know their husbands and boyfriends never play away from home.
Yakubu's hat-trick at Goodison Park means it is now a miserable 25 winless games for the Cottagers on the road.
The last side to endure such a torrid run on their travels was Northern Ireland. It was Lawrie Sanchez who brought that dire spell to an end, and he may need to work a similar miracle as he did at international level to keep Fulham up.
Sanchez has spoken of 'freshening up' his side in January. Industrial strength Shake 'n Vac will be needed on this evidence.
After a dogged first half, his side was skittled over in alarming fashion.
Whingeing
Sanchez believes poor officialdom, and an horrendously tricky run of away fixtures, is the root of his woe.
He said: "There was nothing in it until the first goal which you will see is offside.
"It's the usual story for us. People will say I'm whingeing but without the first goal there is no second or third. Our problem away is simple. We don't win football matches. There are times we've been close but we don't see it out.
"It's very concerning, but six of our eight away games have been against teams at the top. We need to make sure we have a good home record."
Everton have no such worries, with increasingly valid ambitions to gatecrash the Champions' League places for the second time in three seasons.
Not bad for a club whose owner was this week accused of ‘murdering the soul of Goodison' for backing a controversial stadium move to Kirkby.
With this win securing their longest unbeaten run of the David Moyes' era, Bill Kenwright can at least take some pride from his role in reviving the heart of the club.
Ten matches without defeat represent the best sequence since the West End producer plucked Moyes from Preston five-and-a-half years ago.
If the current run continues, even Kenwright's critics may start to believe he is doing something right.
He owes most of that, of course, to Moyes' eye for talent which on days like this looks like a Midas touch.
None symbolise this more than Tim Cahill, whose stunning volley helped Yakubu to break Fulham's resistance on 51 minutes.
Antti Niemi could only block the Aussie's thunderous strike to the feet of the Nigerian, who gleefully tapped in.
Beamed
His second 10 minutes later was also a formality, heading home from a yard when Phil Jagielka flicked on one of Mikel Arteta's numerous pinpoint corners.
Fittingly, the Yak saved the best until last. After 79 minutes he took Steven Pienaar's pass and showed strength and a delicate touch to stroke the ball past Niemi.
That makes it nine goals since Yakubu's £11million summer move from Middlesbrough.
Moyes beamed: "When we signed him we knew he had an incredible goalscoring record.
"If he can score the same amount here as he has done elsewhere, he will keep us in the top half of the league.
"He has added another dimension to our play."
Moyes added: "I thought all the players looked tired in the first half. We didn't have the energy but I put that down to the conditions. In the second half we were terrific to score three and could have had a couple more.
"We've really improved. There were some really good performances all over the park."
SOURCE: NOTW | | Nigeria win World U-17 Cup | Nigeria won the Under-17 World Cup final with a 3-0 win over Spain on penalties after a thrilling end-to-end match ended 0-0 after extra time.
Nigeria's hero was goalkeeper Oladele Ajiboye who saved two penalties in the shootout as Nigeria won the tournament for the third time after successes in China in 1985 and Japan in 1993.
Matthew Edile, Daniel Joshua, and Ganiyu Oseni all scored for Nigeria while Asier Illaramendi missed for Spain and Fran Merida, who is on Arsenal's books, and Iago, who is with Barcelona, saw their penalties saved.
Both sides hit the bar late on as they searched for the breakthrough, which, despite more than 30 goal attempts from both sides, came only in the shootout.
Earlier, Germany beat Ghana 2-1 in the third-place playoff with the German winner coming in stoppage time from Kaiserslautern youngster Alexander Esswein.
Germany took the lead after 17 minutes through skipper Toni Kroos of Bayern Munich, who won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, while Ransford Osei equalised for Ghana after 67 minutes.
Macauley Chrisantus of Nigeria won the Golden Shoe as the tournament's top scorer with seven goals.
CULLED FROM: The Guardian | | Falcons set to upset favourites |  Although Nigeria are arguably in the toughest group of the 2007 women's World Cup in China, the Super Falcons are still expected to pose a threat to their rivals.
Group B matches against the United States and North Korea follow the African champions' daunting opener against Sweden on 11 September in Chengdu.
The Super Falcons have a world ranking of 24 but their opponents are three of the five best teams in the world.
The US are the top ranked team according to Fifa while the Swedes and the North Koreans are fourth and fifth respectively.
The Nigerians go into this year's tournament without one of their most potent weapons of recent years - Mercy Akide.
Akide, a veteran of three World Cups and two Olympic Games, fell out with senior figures in Nigeria's football establishment.
The 31-year-old striker subsequently made herself unavailable for World Cup selection - a move interpreted by many as a case of jumping before she was pushed.
Although her goal-poaching skills will be missed, Cynthia Uwak, Perpetua Nkwocha and Stella Mbachu are no mean replacements.
They are three of eight players who have gained invaluable experience playing outside Africa, with Nkwocha and Mbachu plying their trade in the Chinese Super League.
Rising young star Uwak was nominated for the Fifa World Player of the Year award in 2006 and was also picked to play for the World All Stars team against China in April this year.
Needless to say, Uwak's talent, Nkwocha's experience and Mbachu's insight will be needed greatly when Nigeria take on the same opponents they faced in the last World Cup.
At the 2003 tournament, Nigeria finished pointless, goalless and having conceded 11 goals - a nightmare scenario they are keen not to see repeated this year.
The Super Falcons begin their mission on 11 September against Sweden in the Chengdu Sports Centre.
Three days later, they face North Korea before rounding off their group campaign on 18 September against the United States in Shanghai.
Despite the odds stacked against his team, coach Effiom Ntiero remains optimistic.
"I believe the World Cup is going to be good to us," he said, perhaps more out of hope than conviction.
SOURCE: BBC Sports | | Championship will be a breeze - Okocha |  Jay-Jay Okocha, who destroyed Premier League defences for the best part of four years, believes playing in the Championship will be a breeze.
The former Bolton and Nigeria captain, 34, has returned to England to join ambitious Hull on an initial 10-month deal with a view to a further 12 months.
Okocha has spent the past year plying his trade in Qatar Sport Club which, while boosting his bank balance, did little to enhance his career.
Now, having swapped the Middle East for East Yorkshire, he insists he is ripe for an Indian summer with the Tigers.
"It is a very physical league but if I can play in the Premiership then I won't have any problems playing in the Championship," said Okocha, who won 73 Nigeria caps and is already being hailed as Hull's greatest-ever signing.
He added: "I'm up for the challenge. I don't have to think about other players.
"I'm more concerned with my own game and how I can influence things on the field with my ability."
That Okocha was one of most naturally gifted players ever to grace the Premier League during his time at Bolton is undeniable.
The sight of the Nigerian wizard dancing with Sam Allardyce on the Reebok Stadium after Bolton beat Middlesbrough 2-1 in May 2003 to celebrate survival ensured his place in Trotters folklore.
That Okocha's wizardry helped transform Bolton from perennial strugglers to a side which qualified for Europe for the first time in the club's history is similarly not up for debate.
The good news for Hull fans and chairman Paul Duffen is that Okocha sees similar potential at the KC Stadium.
He looks set to be installed as the creative fulcrum in a side managed by Phil Brown, the former assistant to Allardyce for three of Okocha's four years at Bolton.
Okocha, who featured for Nigeria in the 1994, 1998 and 2002 World Cup finals, confirmed: "Phil influenced me to come here and I hope I will repay him for that.
"He has given me another opportunity to come and enjoy life in England."
Hull is the largest city in Europe never to have had a top-flight football club but the Tigers could hardly be accused of lacking ambition.
Following a £10million takeover of the club in May by media mogul Duffen, Hull smashed their transfer fee last week when they paid £1million for Wigan striker Caleb Folan.
"Hull made it clear how ambitious they are," added Okocha, who should make his debut in next Saturday's home match against Stoke.
"They have a new chairman at the club and they want to take Hull to a new level.
"I've got those ambitions and I'm glad to be back on the scene.
"The KC Stadium reminds me of the Reebok and hopefully I can achieve at Hull what I achieved at Bolton."
SOURCE: Daily Mail | | Nigeria reach World U-17 semi-finals |  Nigeria defeated Argentina 2-0 on Sunday to reach the semi-finals of the under-17 World Cup in South Korea.
The Golden Eaglets will face Germany in Wednesday's semi-finals after the Europeans thrashed their rivals England 4-1 in the other quarter-final match on Sunday.
Nigeria were on the back-foot from the first minute and goalkeeper Oladele Ajiboye had to make two saves prevent the South Americans from taking the lead.
But the tables were turned in the 33rd minutes when Lukman Haruna was brought down in the penalty area by Fernando Meza.
The Nigerian captain picked himself up and dispatched the resultant penalty with aplomb to hand the West Africans the lead.
The Golden Eaglets continued to dominate and they doubled their lead just before the break when Macauley Chrisantus scored from the edge of the box.
Argentina had a couple of chances to narrow the deficit, but Nigeria hung on to reach the semi-finals for the fifth time at an under-17 World Cup.
The Golden Eagles will be trying to keep up the nation's record of winning all its previous four semi-finals.
"Argentina were a lot tougher to beat than the result suggests," Nigeria coach Yemi Tella said.
"They were at their most dangerous from set pieces, but we were very well prepared for that."
Argentina coach Miguel Angel Tojo predicted Nigeria will meet west African rival Ghana in the final.
"We gave it all we had, but it just wasn't enough," Tojo said.
"We've played teams from every continent at this World Cup, which has been a tremendous experience for my players."
The other semi-final will pit Ghana against Spain, with both teams winning their quarter-final ties on Saturday.
CULLED FROM: BBC Sport | | Dreams come true for Ozokwo, Ighalo |  Two young Nigerians have beaten the 31 August transfer deadline to achieve their goal of playing in Europe.
Striker Nduka Ozokwo joined French side Nice on a one-year contract while Odion Ighalo has moved to Norway on a three-year deal with Lyn Oslo.
Ozokwo represented Nigeria at the under-20 World Cup in July in Canada, and was playing for premier league club Enugu Rangers.
"The dream of playing in Europe is here and I hope to make good use of the opportunity," the 18-year-old Ozokwo said.
He teams up with defender and compatriot Onyekachi Apam at the French Ligue 1 outfit.
Ighalo, also 18, joins Lyn Oslo as replacement for departed compatriot Chinedu Ogbuke, who left for German second division side 1899 Hoffenheim.
The former Prime and Julius Berger striker hopes to surpass the achievements of his predecessor at the Norwegian outfit.
"I have come to a club with ambition and I hope to put in my best," says Ighalo. "I know they expect me to play like Ogbuke or even do better, but I am a different player and can only do my best.
"My own ambition is to be my own man and help the team to success because we have a good squad here.
Ighalo had gone for trials at German side Hertha Berlin and Portuguese side Sporting Lisbon before targeting Lyn Oslo.
He feels the presence of fellow countrymen Paul Obiefule and Bala Ezekiel will help propel him to success.
"It's a very good move for me and I know Paul and Bala will help me settle down quickly here.
"My dream has come true and I just can't wait to start," Ighalo added.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | I can't believe I've joined my hero Kanu - Utaka |  To clear up any lingering confusion, Portsmouth's £7million signing John Utaka mouths his surname.
'It is pronounced “Ooh-taka”. I've had “Youtaka” but that is not right.' Have you got that?
Good news for Pompey fans who have already come up with the chant 'Ooh-Ooh-Utaka' after a goal on his debut at Derby, a strike followed up by a marvellous effort last weekend against Bolton.
But they might have to think of another song, because this Nigeria forward — who arrived in the Premier League via Egypt, Qatar and France — wants to be known as 'The Torpedo'.
And observing his powerful burst from the halfway line against Bolton — 'one of the best goals I have scored' — you can see why.
Even the meaning of his surname bears a resemblance to Utaka's style of play. 'The full name is Utaka Mma which means that arrow is stronger than knife,' the 25-year-old said.
'Two men are about to fight: one is armed with a knife and the other is armed with an arrow. The one with the arrow is always going to react quicker than the one with the knife because, before he pulls out his knife, he has already been struck by the arrow.'
That Harry Redknapp and the Portsmouth fans have Utaka's weaponry at their disposal has much to do with club and country team-mate and childhood hero Kanu.
The Nigeria skipper may have spent the summer deliberating over whether to extend his stay at Fratton Park, but that did not stop Kanu performing the hard sell on Utaka. 'He convinced me to come here,' said Utaka. 'Manchester City and Newcastle were interested but when we played for Nigeria against Uganda in June, he told me that Portsmouth would be a good team to join. He looks after me, there is no doubt he is a great guy.'
Only right, then, that Utaka should return the favour when decision time arrived for Kanu. 'After he persuaded me to come I told him I would like him to stay.
He knows the way I play and I know the way he plays, so it makes things easier for me as a newcomer. He has so much Premier League experience with Arsenal, West Bromwich and Portsmouth, I told him that if he was around, it would be easier for me.'
Kanu's star status in Nigeria meant his influence on Utaka's footballing career began far before they linked up for their country.
'I was a fan of Ajax when Kanu was there, back when I never thought I'd even be leaving Nigeria,' said Utaka. 'I followed them when he was in Holland and I can't believe I've ended up playing in the same club team as him. It's a dream come true.'
History has come full circle in more ways than one, given that the team with whom Utaka cut his teeth in his home town of Enugu in south-east Nigeria have close links with The Kanu Heart Foundation. 'I played for the teaching hospital's club. They're a very small amateur club, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital FC in Enugu,' said Utaka.
His talents were soon spotted by Charles Nwosu, a Nigerian scout working in Egypt. By a stroke of fortune, Nwosu also hails from Enugu, a key factor in gaining the trust of Utaka's parents Peter and Roseline when, at just 16, he was offered the chance to try his luck as a professional in Egypt.
'Charles was like a mentor for me,' said Utaka. 'He was not living far from where I lived. My mother refused to let me go in the beginning — she was saying I was too young so she couldn't let him go. My dad didn't want to let me go either but Charles told them: “Trust me, I will take care of him”.'
Although perhaps not the most well-trodden route for African footballers striving for a professional career, Nwosu was true to his word in securing his protege a contract with Egyptian side Arab Contractors under current Austria manager Josef Hickersberger.
'It was a big change going to a different country,' said Utaka. 'At first I was living in the hotel in the stadium as they wanted to protect their young players. I didn't sneak out into Cairo! But Cairo was a good experience, the whole passage. I learned something every day.'
After moving to another Egyptian club Ismaily, then spending a season playing for Al-Sadd of Qatar, Utaka came to the attention of French side Lens after appearing in the 2002 World Cup with Nigeria at the age of just 20.
Three seasons at Lens and two more at Rennes brought a regular, though not prolific, supply of goals, but it was enough to persuade Portsmouth to splash out.
'Life in Portsmouth is going very, very well,' said Utaka after spending a good half-an-hour longer on the training pitch than his teammates, honing his shooting skills.
It seems for The Torpedo the short trip across the Channel holds no fears. After all, Utaka has already left defences across three continents with that sinking feeling.
SOURCE: Daily Mail | | Martins leads way as African strikers shine | Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins played a leading role for Newcastle United in the English Premier League as other African players again shone in Europe.
ENGLAND
Martins struck his 11th goal of the season for Newcastle as they battled to a 2-1 win over relegation-threatened Sheffield United on a weekend of high drama.
Martins' goal opened the scoring, but Ivorian striker Christian Nade looked to have salvaged a crucial point with a clinical right-footed finish that made it 1-1 in the 74th minute.
But Newcastle's English defender Steven Taylor snatched the win with a powerful 80th minute header to move his side up to 10th in the standings.
Charlton Athletic had intensified the pressure on Sheffield by moving out of the relegation zone thanks largely to Moroccan defender Talal El Karkouri.
He was outstanding at the centre of Charlton's defence on Friday evening as The Addicks drew 0-0 away to Manchester City.
South African Benny McCarthy continued his highly impressive goal-scoring season for Blackburn Rovers.
But his 24th minute penalty, his 13th goal in the Premier League, could not prevent Blackburn Rovers sinking to a 2-1 home defeat to Aston Villa.
Everton's 18-year-old Nigerian striker Victor Anichebe scored in their 4-1 home win over Fulham, moving them to sixth in the table.
SPAIN
Second-placed Sevilla failed to score for the second consecutive week after leaving Malian Frederic Kanoute, the Primera Liga's joint top goal-scorer, on the substitutes' bench.
Despite his 19 league goals so far this season, Kanoute was omitted from the starting line-up as Sevilla hosted Racing Santander.
They rested him in advance of Thursday's UEFA cup quarter final second leg with English club Tottenham Hotspur.
Kanoute was introduced as a second-half substitute, but could not make the difference as the teams drew 0-0.
The point gained helped Sevilla close the gap on leaders Barcelona, who lost 1-0 to Real Zaragoza.
Recreativo Huelva's Nigerian striker Ikechukwu Uche was inspirational in his team's 4-2 home win over Celta Vigo. His combination of powerful running and flair created three goals for his team mates.
GERMANY
In the Bundesliga, Tunisian defender Karim Haggui scored an eighth minute own-goal as Bayer Leverkusen lost 4-1 at home to VfL Bochum who move out of the relegation places.
Algerian defender Anther Yahia doubled Bochum's lead after 16 minutes and set up the comfortable win.
Two goals from Egypt's Mohamed Zidan, his 10th and 11th of the season, were not enough to prevent second-bottom Mainz falling to a 3-2 defeat at VfL Wolfsburg.
FRANCE
Ivorian Amara Diane scored a late winner for Paris Saint-Germain against Le Mans. The Parisians are currently fighting for Ligue 1 survival and their 2-1 win saw them move three points clear of the relegation zone.
Senegal's Mamadou Niang scored the first and last goals in Olympique Marseille's 4-1 home win over Lille, which put Marseille into fifth place above Lille. Niang has now scored 10 league goals this season.
African players impressed in St Etienne's 2-1 win at home to Nantes. Senegal's Batefimbi Gomis scored the winner and his 10th goal of the season after Nantes Malian forward Mamadou Diallo had cancelled out Vincent Hognon's opener.
Gomis's countryman Mouhamadou Dabo was later sent off for St Etienne.
Burkina Faso striker Moumouni Dagano scored the equaliser for Sochaux as they drew 1-1 with Nice.
Stade Rennes had a goal from Nigerian John Utaka to thank for their 1-0 win over Racing Lens. Algerian Rafih Saifi scored from the penalty spot in FC Lorient's 1-0 win at AS Nancy.
SOURCE: The Guardian | | Southgate praise for Yakubu, Viduka |  Gareth Southgate praised his strike partnership of Mark Viduka and Yakubu Aiyegbeni after both players scored in Middlesbrough's 2-1 win over Reading.
The two stars have struck up a productive understanding at The Riverside and their clinical finishing secured a good win over an in-form Reading side.
Indeed, Southgate felt the rest of his side should have provided better service to the pair as they caused the visitors' defence problems throughout.
"Yes they are [really clicking], I think they are enjoying playing together," Southgate told Sky Sports. "They are feeding off of each other and are a handful for other teams.
"I think we could have got the ball in to them a lot more today. I thought we played backwards and square a bit too much at times and invited Reading to put us under pressure but we are still learning how to win matches and it was an important win for us.
"We made life difficult for ourselves that is for sure. At 2-0 you hope to see the game out but you have to give Reading a lot of credit.
"That symbolises what they are about, they never stop and they were probably worthy of a goal on the day. They didn't do enough to win the game, but they pushed us all the way."
Viduka's first-half backheel was the result of a well worked set-piece from Stewart Downing, and Southgate magnanimously conferred the credit for the goal on his backroom staff.
"My assistant Malcolm Crosby has got to take the credit for that, he has dug that out of his old football manual from about 1965 and it paid off for us," Southgate added.
"It is good when those things happen, and the second goal was an incredible strike from Yak."
Boro are now one point shy of Newcastle and Tottenham - who occupy ninth and tenth place in the Premiership - and Southgate has called on his side to ensure they finish as high up the league as possible.
"Reading have gone 11 games unbeaten or something so it is a real feather in our cap, and we have got to keep that going now.
"We have got ten league games left and we want to aim as high as possible."
SOURCE: skysports.co | | Martins sorry for Nigeria no-show |  Newcastle striker Obafemi Martins has apologised for missing Nigeria's 4-1 defeat by Ghana on 6 February.
Martins was released to play by the Magpies but returned to Nigeria to look after his sick mother instead.
"I apologise to the Nigeria FA and the players because it was a very important game," he told BBC Sport. "But I also believe my mum was more important."
The Nigeria FA have threatened to punish Martins, possibly by suspending him from playing for the Super Eagles.
But Martins does not think that any further action will be taken against him.
He also says that he will be available to play for Nigeria in the future.
"When I am called upon I will play for them, because you have to respect the national team," he said.
"I do respect the Super Eagles a lot, so anytime they call I will come and play."
SOURCE: BBC Spor | | Roeder clarifies Martins absence |  Newcastle United boss Glenn Roeder says Obafemi Martins needed to tend to his ill mother after missing Nigeria's friendly with Ghana this week.
Former Internazionale striker Martins was absent after being called up by The Super Eagles, as Nigeria went on to lose 4-1 to The Black Stars at Brentford's Griffin Park on Tuesday evening.
His absence angered Nigeria coach Augustine Eguavoen, who threatened to report the situation to Fifa.
Roeder, however, revealed how the striker used Fifa's 'free day' for international players to fly home to Nigeria and bring his ill mother back to the North East.
"Oba was back in training today after making a lightning-quick return to Nigeria to attend to his mother, who has been poorly," Roeder said.
It remains to be seen if Nigerian football officials carry through with their threat to report Newcastle and Martins to world football's governing body.
The former West Ham United manager gave praise to midfielders Antoine Sibierski and Kieron Dyer for their goals contribution this season, having further underlined the void left by the absence of the injured Michael Owen.
"Our injury worries started at the World Cup with Michael Owen getting hurt, and have continued from then," he added.
"We have not made injuries an excuse, we have merely stated who is or is not available.
"But we knew before a ball had even been kicked we would be robbed of Michael Owen's services.
"What team would not find it hard without Michael? He is a world-class striker.
"You only need to look at Chelsea when John Terry was out to see what a difference one player being injured can make."
SOURCE:skysports.com | | Oguchi targets long Toon deal |  USA defender Oguchi Onyewu wants to stick around at St James’ Park after signing for Newcastle on loan.
The strapping Standard Liege centre-back has joined the Toon for the remainder of the season with a view to a permanent deal.
He is unlikely to feature against Aston Villa tonight so he has just 13 matches to prove he is a Premiership star in the making.
Onyewu, 24, said: “I am not just here for the short term, I am here for the long term. It feels great to be here and I want to be part of something special.
“I am eager to step in and make an impact with the team. I have known for a couple of weeks that it was possible.
“I have been following Newcastle and their results for a while. I realised this was the best career move for me.”
The man known as ‘Guchi’ added: “I know the club’s great history, the great fans they have and I know they are eager to get a title in the near future.
“I am a herd player and my work ethic is high. I want to contribute something positive.
“It will be more physical here which is not a problem for me and just the quality of play.
“The current squad has been injury stricken which has been the cause of poor results.
“I know some injured players are back and in the second half of the season we want better results.”
Boss Glenn Roeder said: “He comes across as an impressive person. He is certainly physically impressive, which is something I feel we need.”
SOURCE: The Sun | | Wigan sign Aghahowa |  Shakhtar Donetsk have agreed to sell Nigerian striker Julius Aghahowa to English Premier League strugglers Wigan Athletic, the Ukraine champions said on Monday.
'Aghahowa has been with us for almost seven years and it's time for him to move elsewhere,' Shakhtar coach Mircea Lucescu told reporters following Sunday's 2-0 defeat by Russian champions CSKA Moscow at an invitational tournament in Israel.
'He wants to play in England and we decided to grant him his wish,' Lucescu said.
'He is in London right now to finalise his deal with Wigan.'
Aghahowa's move is subject to the 24-year-old international being granted a work permit in England.
Shakhtar have not disclosed the fee for Aghahowa, who was bought by the Donetsk side from Tunisia's Esperance for less than £2million in 2000, but media reports have put the transfer at over £3.5million.
CULLED FROM: soccernet.com | | Vogts ready for Nigeria challenge |  Berti Vogts says his troubled tenure as Scotland coach will help him be a success in his new job as manager of the Nigerian national side.
The German spent three disastrous years in charge of the Scots from 2001 to 2004 during which time the team's international standing slumped to an all-time low.
He has been mainly on the sidelines since being sacked from that job and it was to general suprise that he was named as Nigeria's new coach on Monday.
The 60-year-old Vogts said that his time in Scotland would prove invaluable to his work with the Super Eagles.
"It's impossible to learn all of Nigeria's 38 different languages and dialects and anyway all the players speak English," said Vogts whose powers of communication in his second language were a constant source of ridicule in Scotland.
"On top of that, anyone who has survived in Scotland can survive in Nigeria."
The Vogts' appointment has met with a mixed reaction in Nigerian football circles with critics pointing to his abysmal record with Scotland and his lack of experience of African football.
But the former German national team coach countered that most of Nigeria's top players were based in Europe where he would spend most of his time.
"But also I want to plan for the future of Nigerian football," he said."
"I intend to set up structures that will help | Fulham 2-1 Newcastle
McBride strike voids Obafemi strike |  Fulham earned their first win in eight league games as Heidar Helguson and Brian McBride scored against Newcastle.
Helguson capitalised on a shocking back-pass by Nicky Butt to lash the ball past Steve Harper from 20 yards.
McBride wrapped it up when he neatly finished from six yards after a great run and cross from Papa Bouba Diop.
Newcastle were disappointing, though Jan Lastuvka saved brilliantly from Steven Taylor before Obafemi Martins' fine drive pulled one back late on.
However Glenn Roeder's side got exactly what they deserved after a subdued performance at Craven Cottage.
In truth, the first half was a non-event as both sides cancelled each other out in a scrappy midfield battle.
Newcastle seemed to be getting the better of it as James Milner and Kieron Dyer began to see more of the ball, but clear-cut chances were at a premium.
As Fulham sought to wrestle control Stephen Carr nearly gifted them a goal, but his short back-header to Harper was nodded over by Helguson.
Just before the break Newcastle twice nearly took the lead, but Lastuvka made a fine stop with his left leg from Taylor and then Onyewu saw a drilled shot ricochet on to a post.
Onyewu was enjoying an impressive introduction to the Premiership - providing the Magpies defence with some much-needed steel and a cool head to boot.
But their good first-half work was in tatters four minutes into the second half as Butt lost the plot to hand Fulham the lead.
The experienced midfielder tried to pass back to Harper from a throw-in and Helguson latched on to the ball 20 yards out to rifle over the keeper and into the net.
It certainly livened up proceedings, as Fulham poured forward to try and double their lead and Newcastle hung on frantically.
Harper tipped a McBride header over and then saved an effort from Carlos Bocanegra, Newcastle replying with Milner's 25-yard free-kick flashing just wide.
The visitors were lucky to have 11 on the pitch when Titus Bramble carelessly gave the ball to Helguson and as the Icelander ran through, Bramble pulled him down - referee Phil Dowd only producing a yellow card.
But Fulham got the second goal their dominance deserved when Diop used brute strength to force his way down the right and cross for McBride to coolly slot home.
Martins grabbed a consolation deep into stoppage time when he latched on to a pass to fire past Lastuvka, but Fulham held on.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | Nigeria FA face uphill task
over Oba for Ghana friendly | Nigeria Football Association (NFA) is to hold discussions with Newcastle boss Glen Roeder in an effort to secure the release of Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins for the national team in the friendly match between Nigeria and Ghana next Tuesday.
The Toon manager last week pleaded with the £10m million rated player to put club before country by shunning the West African derby proposed for Brentford Stadium, London in order that he would not risk any injury ahead of crucial club engagements lined next month.
Newcastle, which has battled with several injury woes to key players this year, plays Fulham at Craven Cottage on February 3 and a home game with Liverpool at St James Park seven days later. And for that reason the Magpies want to keep Martins who has banged in nine goals in the Premiership as fresh as ever.
"It is only a friendly and Nigeria cannot insist on Oba playing. And because he has had so much football this season I will be asking him not to play against Ghana.
"He has already played nearly 30 games for us, and he has probably played more matches this season than at any time in his career," Roeder said.
But NFA spokesman Robinson Okosun last night said that rather than seeking the intervention of FIFA, the federation would opt for confidence building with Roeder not to cage Martins from playing from his nation.
Okosun said they would also hold talks with the managers of the other Eagles Premiership campaigners as part of the confidence building initiative.
"We were stunned by the development. But we want to talk with the Newcastle management to see reason why we want Martins turn up for the Ghana match which holds on an international free window. We see no reason for him to stay away because he is important for the commercial success of the match," Okosun said.
SOURCE: All Africa News | | Roeder fears Obafemi injury in Ghana friendly |  Newcastle boss Glenn Roeder is set to plead with striker Obafemi Martins to sit out Nigeria's upcoming friendly with Ghana.
With Michael Owen and Shola Ameobi long-term absentees, Martins has been the focal point of Newcastle's attack this term.
Martins has taken on the challenge with relish, but he has played nearly 30 games this term and Roeder does not want to overface the forward.
Nigeria face Ghana in a friendly at Brentford's Griffin Park early next month, with the game sandwiched between Premiership clashes with Fulham and Liverpool.
Roeder is fearful of Martins picking up an injury and leaving Newcastle scratching round for alternatives.
"It is only a friendly and Nigeria cannot insist on Oba playing. And because he has had so much football this season I will be asking him not to play against Ghana," said Roeder.
"He has already played nearly 30 games for us, and he has probably played more matches this season than at any time in his career.
"He is a great lad and I am sure he will understand the situation because we are a bit thin on the ground for strikers and we do not want the risk of losing him."
SOURCE: skysports.com | | Nigeria collides with Toons, Chelsea |  Nigeria have threatened to report Newcastle and Chelsea to Fifa if they do not release their players for Tuesday's friendly against Ghana.
Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder says Obafemi Martins is tired while Chelsea say Mikel Jon Obi has a thigh injury.
But Nigeria Football Association (NFA) vice-chairman Amanze Uchegbulam told BBC Sport: "This is a friendly on a Fifa approved date.
"Therefore we have the rights to our players on Tuesday."
Uchegbulam has made it clear that the Nigerian FA will report both clubs if they do not release their respective players.
"The excuse being given is that the players are injured," added Uchegbulam.
"Even if that is the case Fifa regulations say that the players should report to their national team for assessment by the national team doctors.
"Until our medical team declare any player unfit we insist that we will report any club that fails to release our players.
"We think it is unfair to Nigeria and in the interest of the good relationship we have with these clubs our players should be released immediately."
stle were hoping to persuade Martins to put club before country as they face Liverpool in the Premiership on Saturday.
Roeder is asking his 10-goal leading scorer not to play knowing an injury could severely affect his club.
"It is only a friendly and Nigeria cannot insist on Oba playing, and because he has had so much football this season, I will be asking him not to play against Ghana," Roeder said last week.
"He has already played nearly 30 games for us - he has probably played more matches this season than at any time in his career.
"He is a great lad and I am sure he will understand the situation because we are a bit thin on the ground for strikers and we do not want the risk of losing him."
Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho said Mikel picked up an injury in the 1-0 win over Charlton.
"A young kid of 19, playing five consecutive matches, running 12 kilometres a game, of course the boy is a little tired and he felt a little pain," said Mourinho.
"We have to scan it, but experience says he has a little muscular problem and for the next 15 days, he is out of competition."
The friendly takes place at Brentford's Griffin Park ground in London.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Nigerians divided over Vogts choice | A mixed reaction has greeted the appointment by the Nigeria Football Association of former Germany boss Berti Vogts as the country's coach with several prominent football personalities questioning his suitability.
NFA chairman Sani Lulu had announced on Monday that Vogts had agreed to handle the Super Eagles' to make him the country's 23rd expatriate coach since 1949.
Officials said the 60-year-old former Borussia Monchengladbach star is expected to sign a four-year contract in Abuja before the end of the month.
"The choice of Vogts is a huge mistake because he does not have what it takes. You cannot employ someone who has continued to fail since 1997. He failed with Germany at the 1998 World Cup. He failed with Scotland," said former NFA board member John Fashanu on Tuesday.
Former international skipper Segun Odegbami also said he was far from impressed with Vogts' recent record particularly his stint with Scotland.
"His choice is not convincing because he did not enjoy a successful stint with Scotland," argued Odegbami.
However, sports journalist Ben Alaiya said he believes the former Germany international defender is what Nigeria needs if it is to enjoy success at international level again.
"He is one of the best coaches we could have hired because he won the European Championship as a coach in 1996. We therefore expect great things from him. He should qualify us for the African Nations Cup and lead us to at least the semi-finals of the 2010 World Cup," said Alaiya, who is sports editor of the newspaper Daily Independent.
Former Eagles coach Christian Chukwu also praised the NFA for picking Vogts.
"For the first time, we are going for a truly world-class coach. He played the game at the highest level. He also coached teams at the highest level. His experience will take Nigeria to the next level," said Chukwu, who was sacked in July after the Eagles were forced to a 1-1 draw in a World Cup qualifying game in Kano.
CULLED from YAHOO! Sports | | Onyewu close to Newcastle move | United States international defender Oguchi Onyewu is undergoing a medical with Newcastle with a view to a loan move from Belgian side Standard Liege.
Onyewu, 24, has been attracting interest from clubs across Europe, reportedly including Chelsea.
The former Metz centre-half appeared in all three of the USA's matches at the World Cup in Germany last summer which boosted his profile and he is set to sign on loan until the end of the season.
Born in Washington DC to Nigerian parents, Onyewu played college football for two years before joining French side Metz in 2002.
He made little impact with the Lorraine club and was loaned to Belgians La Louviere in 2003 and Standard Liege a year later.
His move to Liege was made permanent soon afterwards and he has since forged a strong reputation for his strength and aerial ability, being voted the Jupiler League's foreign player of the year in 2005.
Last season was his most successful with the club as they claimed second place in the division, behind Anderlecht.
Onyewu was part of the US team that won the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2005 before featuring in last summer's World cup.
His performances in Germany led to his being voted the US Soccer Federation's Soccer Athlete of the Year for 2006.
The commanding centre-half, whose nickname is 'Gooch', has been linked with moves to Middlesbrough and Chelsea, among others, since last summer and was widely tipped to be joining Marseille before United made their move.
SOURCE: Daily Mail | | Siasia heads Nigeria's Olympic team |  Former Nigeria international Samson Siasia has been appointed as the coach of the country's Olympic team.
Siasia, who led the Nigerian under-20 side to the finals of the 2005 World Youth Championship, will be assisted by another former international Henry Nwosu.
Nigeria Football Association (NFA) says Siasia is capable of translating the under-20 success to the Olympic side.
"Siasia showed great capability at the under-20 World Cup and having proved himself at the world stage, we are comfortable with him taking charge of those boys again," NFA chairman Sani Lulu told BBC Sport.
"He deserves our encouragement and working with a team he knows very well, makes his job quite interesting.
Siasia, who only recently walked out on Nigerian champions Ocean Boys after an attack by fans, is bracing up for the new challenge.
"It's a huge challenge for me and I know with the support of everyone we will go places," Siasia said.
"What happened at Ocean Boys was a total shame even though the owner of the club is still keen on reconciling me and the club.
"I have the immediate task of leading the national under-23 and that is obviously paramount at the moment."
Nigeria will face Equatorial Guinea on 7 February in the second round of the qualifiers for the 2008 Olympic Games in China.
Three African countries will qualify for the Olympics.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Koeman 'makes Kanu contact' |  Reports in the Dutch press claim that PSV Eindhoven coach Ronald Koeman has spoken with Nwankwo Kanu regarding a potential move for the Portsmouth striker.
The Nigerian striker has frequently been linked with a move to De Eredivisie this season, but his former club Ajax have always been the rumoured suitors for the former African Player of the Year.
Now Pompey boss Harry Redknapp may have to fend off further interest in the player who has scored ten goals so far this season on the South Coast.
Kanu is out of contract at the end of the current campaign and a report in Sportweek magazine claims that Koeman has made contact with the former Arsenal and West Brom man.
PSV are currently searching for striking reinforcements and may have turned to Kanu after failing to hammer out a deal for Newcastle forward Albert Luque.
However Redknapp is desperate to keep hold of Kanu after his goalscoring exploits and claimed recently that Pompey have the option to extend the striker's contract by a further year.
SOURCE: skysports.com | Fashanu warns Agbonlahor
over England | Former England international John Fashanu has warned Gabriel Agbonlahor against pledging his international future to the European country.
Agbonlahor, whose father is from Nigeria, turned down an offer to play for the West African nation last month.
The Aston Villa striker says he wants to concentrate on winning a place in the English national team after representing them at youth level.
But Nigerian-born Fashanu, who twice represented England, says Agbonlahor will regret playing for the 1966 World Cup winners.
"The decision lies with him and his family, and he should think about this thoroughly because it will either make or mar his international career," Fashanu told a local radio station on Wednesday.
"He will probably get two or three games for England's seniors and then get discarded - it's as simple as that.
"I know this because I am a product of the same system and I am still regretting it now.
"I never had the opportunity of getting this sort of advice when I was his age and I don't want him to make the same mistake I made."
Fashanu, who won two England caps in 1989, is one of several Nigerian-born footballers who have opted to play for England.
"Agbonlahor should look at Carlton Cole, Shola Ameobi and many others who are victim of this terrible misjudgement," the former Wimbledon and Aston Villa player explained.
"The Super Eagles will be a great team and he should concentrate on playing for Nigeria rather than England.
"Should he go the England way, the day will come when he will regret his actions."
Agbonlahor has proved a relevation for Villa this season in their impressive start to the English Premiership.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Nigeria league in sponsor dispute |  The Nigeria Football League board (NFL) could be forced to abandon a lucrative deal with South African telecommunications company MTN.
This follows claims by Nigerian company Padmozi that it holds the rights negotiate sponsorship deals for the premier league until January 2007.
On Friday the NFL announced a record-breaking sponsorship deal with MTN reportedly worth US$17m over four years.
But Mike Itemuagbor, the CEO of Padmozi, claimed: "According to the contract that we signed with NFA, we still have the rights until 2007."
"We intend to fulfil that contract and I expect things to be done legally and not illegally."
According to Itemuagbor, the confusion over the contract stems from the fact the NFL was made independent from the NFA in 2004.
"NFL is within its rights to give it to whoever as from 2007. The real issue is that it has jumped the gun," contends Itemuagbor.
But Oyuki Obaseki, chairman of the NFL, confirmed to BBC Sport that Padmozi have no right nor control over the NFL under his leadership.
"I have kept quiet for two years without uttering any comment, Padmozi can keep on barking, I have given my league to a company that value its worth," Oyuki said.
"Seriously, I am not in a position to comment on the circumstances surrounding that contract (Padmozi's) with the NFA, because that reign and government is over.
"That kangaroo contract ended at the end of the 2006 soccer season which is over and I have the right to chose a new title sponsor and MTN has that role now.
"That is the end of the story, MTN is our colour now. "
SOURCE: BBC Sport
| | 'Baba' boosts Msida's black sheep |  Nigerian striker Ibrahim Babatunde, after fruitless pursuits in Italy and Belgium, has succeeded in making a big impression in Malta with unfancied Msida St Joseph FC.
Striking form
Msida are celebrating their centenary and are doing so in style with the help of Lagos-born Babatunde. With six games gone, the tall 'Baba' has scored six goals to briefly lift his club to the top of the Premier League for the first time in their history.
Well travelled
Now 21, it has taken several years for Babatunde to find his feet in Europe, having joined Serie A side Parma FC as a 16-year-old. "Seeing Liliam Thuram and many other great players was a dream come true for me when I went to Parma in 2001/02," he told uefa.com. After subsequent spells at Arezzo Calcio and Piacenza FC in Italy, and a season in Belgium with RAEC Mons, Babatunde found his way to Malta. Five goals in 26 matches helped him to settle in 2005/06, his dazzling ball control delighting supporters, but he has stepped up a gear this term.
At home
"This is my second season with Msida," said Babatunde. "I must admit that I now feel at my very best for the simple reason I am happy with the team, with the new signings, and with the fact that everybody is working hard at the club." Life in the Maltese league is hardly comparable with its Serie A equivalent, but 'Baba' is not worried about stepping down a level. "Not at all," he insisted. "Every professional has to move on to learn about football, and that is why I came here."
Big fish
Now established on the island, Babatunde would love to help Msida cast off their traditionally unfashionable image. "Msida can compete with the big teams and with the form we are in, we can keep pace with the leaders throughout the season," he said. "Everyone is working hard and I don't see why we can't do even better and earn a place in Europe." Whether he will be around to benefit from any European qualification is another matter. "Obviously my ambition is to play in another country, possibly with a top side," he admitted. Until that opportunity arises, Msida's big fish will continue to make big ripples in the modest pond of Maltese football.
SOURCE: UEFA.com
| | Kanu keen to lend a hand |  Two-time CAF African Footballer of the Year Nwankwo Kanu has paid a visit to the headquarters of the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ Organising Committee (OC) to discuss his potential involvement in helping South Africa 2010 go off with a bang.
The Portsmouth striker was taking time out following Nigeria's CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Lesotho, for which the Super Eagles had been preparing at a base camp in their opponents' neighbouring nation, South Africa.
During his meeting with the OC, Kanu received a full briefing from its CEO, Danny Jordaan, on the progress being made in preparing for the tournament and expressed strong interest in becoming involved in the African Legacy Programme and supporting FIFA in its unwavering commitment to African football.
"However they want to use Kanu, they can use me," he told FIFA.com. I am just trying to help where I can."
An African legacy
Kanu has already seen the impact made by FIFA programmes such as Futuro, the GOAL project and the Financial Assistance Programme (FAP), and sees the African Legacy programme as crucial to building on the progress already made. This particular initiative aims to ensure that South Africa and the continent as a whole enjoys a positive social legacy as a direct result of hosting the FIFA World Cup™, while also helping facilitate the development of more players as gifted and successful as Kanu.
"I think this World Cup will show what Africa is made of and show off the African continent as a whole and how beautiful it is," enthused the Nigeria star. "This is not a South African World Cup - it is the whole of Africa hosting the whole of the world."
In addition to volunteering his assistance in any area in which his support could be of benefit, Kanu also discussed the possibility of involving his own charity, the Kanu Heart Foundation, in the African Legacy Programme. In 1996, the then Internazionale striker underwent open-heart surgery to repair a faulty heart valve and, inspired by the experience, he went on to found a charitable foundation that has since helped almost 1,000 African children travel abroad for life-saving operations.
'I have no doubt we will qualify'
On the field, of course, Kanu needs no introduction. Renowned for the flair and charisma with which he plays, the in-form Portsmouth forward can already reflect on having won some of the game's most sought-after titles, such as the UEFA Champions League with Ajax, the English Premier League with Arsenal, and both the FIFA U-17 World Championship and Olympic Football Tournament in the green of Nigeria.
There is, however, one glaring omission from his trophy cabinet: a FIFA World Cup. Nigeria's failure to qualify for Germany 2006 denied the 31-year-old a third crack at landing the game's ultimate prize, but that has only served to increase his desire to ensure that the Super Eagles are invited to the party when the FIFA World Cup pays its first-ever visit to Africa in 2010.
"First we have to qualify, but I have no doubt we will do that," he declared confidently. "And because it is in Africa, I think we will be a force to be reckoned with."
The 2010 FIFA World Cup is certainly benefiting from a great deal of backing from the cream of African football fraternity. Already, five former African Footballers of the Year - Kalusha Bwalya, Roger Milla. Moustapha Hadji, Abedi Pele and George Weah - are actively involved in preparing for and promoting the tournament, and with Kanu now also coming on board, South Africa 2010 could hardly want for a better calibre of support. SOURCE: FIFA.com | | Pompey vetoes Kanu move to Sundown |  Harry Redknapp insists he will not be letting Kanu leave Portsmouth.
The Nigerian forward has made a huge impression at Fratton Park, scoring five goals since joining the club on a one-year contract in August.
But reports have claimed that the 30-year-old has held talks regarding the possibility of a switch to South African side Mamelodi Sundowns.
Redknapp was quick to dismiss the prospect of losing Kanu and admits he could offer the attacker a 12-month contract extension.
"There is no way we would want to let him go," stated Redknapp.
"He has signed for a year and done really well for us, scoring five goals and really working hard.
"I said to him when he signed that we would wait until we get to January and then talk about signing for another year.
"If he continues to do well and play like he has we could well extend his deal."
The Portsmouth boss also revealed that he had been advised against signing Kanu, who had been available on a free transfer from West Brom.
He added: "He has shown a lot of magic for us, even out on the training pitch where the twists and turns he does threaten to damage other players' cartilages and ligaments.
"He is a class act.
"People warned me off signing him at first, but Bryan Robson told me he was the hardest trainer at West Brom and wanted him to stay.
"He has been a terrific free signing for us."
SOURCE: skysports.com | | Agbonlahor denies Chelsea victory at the Bridge |  Gabriel Agbonlahor's equaliser ensured Aston Villa ended Chelsea's 100% home record this season and kept up their own unbeaten Premiership start.
The hosts scored after less than three minutes when Didier Drogba bundled home his eighth goal of the season.
But 19-year-old Agbonlahor got a deserved equaliser for Villa just before half-time, nodding in Liam Ridgewell's astute header.
Salomon Kalou could have won it for Chelsea at the death but headed wide.
It was a frustrating afternoon for the champions, for whom Andriy Shevchenko is still without a goal since the second game of the season.
However, the Blues' increasingly desperate attempts to find a winner coupled with Villa's impressive performance made for a pulsating encounter at Stamford Bridge.
Martin O'Neill had promised his side would not be intimidated by the champions but keeper Thomas Sorensen looked to have forgotten that message when he was easily beaten to Arjen Robben's free-kick by John Terry.
The England captain nodded the ball down to Drogba's feet, who bundled home his 13th goal in 16 games.
The lead secured after just two minutes and 41 seconds, Chelsea continued to pressure the visitors.
Frank Lampard was denied by a magnificent save from Sorensen and suddenly, Villa's record of not having won away in the league since February seemed more telling than their unbeaten start to the season.
But O'Neill's assertion that they would have chances to score at Stamford Bridge proved spot on.
Stilian Petrov had a decent shot saved by Petr Cech and Juan Pablo Angel should have done better than blaze over from a corner.
As the clock hit 44 minutes, Chelsea, who had not conceded a goal in the first-half all season, might have been confident of taking a lead in at half-time.
However, their defence was caught out by some quick thinking, first from Steve Davis, who floated a perfect ball to an unmarked Ridgewell at the far post after a corner had been cleared.
Ridgewell unselfishly directed his header across goal where Agbonlahor nodded home.
The goal instilled new-found belief into Villa and they might have sneaked a lead before half-time when substitute Milan Baros skipped through Chelsea's shellshocked defence but scuffed his shot.
The pattern continued after the break, Agbonlahor frequently threatening the home defence with his electric pace.
Jose Mourinho responded with a double change and it nearly came off.
Shaun Wright-Phillips had already hit the bar when Kalou's shot was deflected to the England winger with the keeper stranded - but he could not get the shot on target.
And after Shevchenko had seen a wonderful curling shot saved by Sorensen, Kalou leapt for a header at the death but somehow planted it wide.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Agbonlahor torn between England and Nigeria | Promising Aston Villa starlet Gabriel Agbonlahor is facing an international dilemma in having to choose between England and Nigeria.
Since being promoted to Villa's starting line-up by new incumbent Martin O'Neill, the 19-year-old has emerged as one of the most promising young players in The Premiership. Birmingham-born Agbonlahor is eligible to play for Nigeria because his father was born there but he has already represented England at youth and Under-20 level.
Agbonlahor has operated in a wide role behind Juan Pablo Angel this term, despite having initially caught the attention as a striker.
With a bright future seemingly beckoning, the youngster must now decide whether to represent Nigeria or try and catch the eye of England boss Steve McClaren.
"I just want to keep playing my football, try to stay in the Villa first team and see what happens," said Agbonlahor.
"I could play for Nigeria because my dad was born there but I could also play for England and have done so already with the youth and Under-20 sides.
"I've always wanted to play at full level for England and the Under-21s would be the next step for me. I would love to get an Under-21 cap. If England comes up, I'd prefer that.
"I wouldn't completely rule out the possibility of playing for Nigeria in the long term. I've not heard anything directly from them but there have been quotes in the papers in Nigeria from an FA official about me.
"But I just want to play as many Premiership games as possible this season. I don't want any distractions and things have been going well for me so far this season."
SOURCE: skysports.com | | Six Nigerians to play for Sudanese clubs | | With Nigerian footballers plying their trade in different parts of the world in search of fame and fortune, few would think of Sudan as the ideal destination. The East African country has just emerged from a 21-year civil war between the Muslim north and the Animist south which is said to have claimed the lives of 1.5 million people. As parts of the country are undergoing reconstruction since peace returned and the widely reported Darfur conflict still to be resolved, very few would want to live there let alone taking up a job in the country. But six Nigerian players have braved the storm to sign professional contracts in Sudan. Three players from 2005 Confederation Cup finalists Dolphins Kelechi Osunwa, Endurance Idahor and Efosa Eguakun left their Nigerian club to join the Sudanese league. Musa Aliyu, Yusuf Muhammed formerly of two-time African champions Enyimba and Ndubuisi Godwin Eze are the other players hoping to get on the radar of European scouts from playing in Sudan. While Aliyu, Muhammed, Osunwa and Eze have for signed giants Al-Hilal, Idahor and Eguakun have chosen to feature for arch-rivals El-Merreikh FC. "My life has changed for the better playing in Sudan, coming here is the best footballing career I've had to take," says Eguakun. "My monthly salary and welfare package is something that is highly unthinkable if I had remained in the Nigerian league," he insists. Although Musa Aliyu and Yusuf Muhammed were double African champions with Enyimba, the duo told BBC Sport that playing in Sudan has exposed them to another world of football. "I decided to come here because of the training facilities and the opportunity of playing in Europe someday," Al-Hilal's Muhammed hints. "They treat us like true professionals and ensure we lack absolutely nothing." Musa Aliyu relishes the platform Sudan affords him to achieve his dream of playing professional football in Europe. "So much had been said about the country before we got here but I must confess that football here could be the launching pad to bigger things," Aliyu said. "Several European agents are always coming around so if I do well here, there is every chance I can get a big move to Europe." While Aliyu is looking forward to moving to Europe, his compatriot Eze who plays for isn't looking any further. After playing for Julius Berger in Nigeria, as well as earning a handful of caps for the Super Eagles, Eze admits the money offered and a chance of an experience of playing in an unusual place attracted him. "I've got a car, a flat of my own and earn good salary and match bonuses playing here, so what else am I looking for in football?," Eze told BBC Sport. "It is by far a better place to earn a living. The fans adore me and there are over 60,000 of them during the big games which is something I always love to see. "The medical and training facility here is of European standard, so it will be foolhardy for anyone to say negative things about this country and its football." Although the UN estimates the population at 35 million in 2005, these six Nigerian footballers may be paving the way for a positive addition to that number from all over Africa in the next couple of years. SOURCE: BBC Sport |
| | | KAN U BELIEVE IT …
KANU WINS IT FOR POMPEY | Kanu's first-half goal won the FA Cup for Portsmouth against Cardiff City in a low-key final at Wembley.
The Nigerian scrambled home the winner at the near post eight minutes before half-time after Cardiff keeper Peter Enckelman fumbled John Utaka's cross.
Cardiff enjoyed possession but rarely posed a serious threat, although Glenn Loovens had a goal ruled out for handball in first-half injury time.
And Portsmouth held on to claim the trophy for the first time since 1939.
It was a personal triumph for emotional Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp as he claimed his first major trophy in a management and coaching career stretching back 25 years.
He raced on to the pitch afterwards to celebrate as Portsmouth's win earned them a place in next season's Uefa Cup - their first European adventure.
The final was given a magnificent backdrop by both clubs' noisy and colourful fans who clearly wanted to make the most of their moment in the limelight.
Underdogs Cardiff, who were trying to become the first team from outside the top flight to win the Cup since West Ham United beat Arsenal in 1980, played with spirit, but did not have the quality to seriously disturb the Pompey defence, in which Campbell and Sylvain Distin were outstanding.
Cardiff boss Dave Jones did not gamble on Robbie Fowler, even as a substitute, after four months out with a hip problem - and his side did not feel his absence in a lively start.
Joe Ledley played in Paul Parry in the 12th minute but Portsmouth keeper David James made a crucial block to deny Cardiff the lead.
Kanu posted the warning signals for Cardiff as early as the 21st minute when he took a pass from Sulley Muntari in his stride and danced around keeper Enckelman, only to send his effort against the outside of the post with the goal unguarded.
He made no mistake eight minutes before the interval when Enckelman could only push out Utaka's whipped cross from the right flank and Kanu pounced to score.
Cardiff had more than held their own and almost provided an instant response when Parry raced clear down the left, but his cross stretched Kevin McNaughton as he arrived at the far post and the chance was gone.
And Bluebirds had a goal ruled out in first-half injury time when Pompey keeper James - who has form for high-profile mistakes in FA Cup finals - missed a corner, but Loovens handled before sending a looping finish into the net.
Loovens came to Cardiff's rescue after 52 minutes when Utaka set up Kanu again and he was forced to block a goal-bound shot with his chest.
Cardiff failed to apply consistent pressure to Portsmouth and boss Jones made a change after 61 minutes, sending on gifted 17-year-old prodigy Aaron Ramsey for Peter Whittingham.
It had been a desperately disappointing afternoon for the veteran Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, so it was no surprise when he was also hauled off with 20 minutes left and time running out for a Cardiff response.
David Nugent had come on as replacement for Utaka, and he forced Enckelman into a smart near-post save from a rising drive as Portsmouth attempted to kill the final off.
Loovens had proved to be a danger man for Cardiff at set-pieces and he sent a header bouncing just over the bar from Ramsey's corner after 79 minutes.
Cardiff's desire to push forward for an equaliser left them open to a counter-attack and Distin almost punished them with a run from the half-way line that was only halted by a fine tackle from Roger Johnson.
But it was Portsmouth's day as for once the favourites justified their tag in this season's unpredictable FA Cup.
To their credit, many Cardiff supporters stayed inside the stadium to see Pompey lift the Cup before they melted away to contemplate their sorrows.
____________________________
Portsmouth: James, Johnson, Campbell, Distin, Hreidarsson, Utaka (Nugent 69), Pedro Mendes (Diop 78), Diarra, Muntari, Kranjcar, Kanu (Baros 87).
Subs Not Used: Ashdown, Pamarot.
Booked: Hreidarsson, Kranjcar, Diarra.
Goals: Kanu 37.
Cardiff: Enckelman, McNaughton, Johnson, Loovens, Capaldi, Ledley, Rae (Sinclair 86), McPhail, Whittingham (Ramsey 61), Parry, Hasselbaink (Thompson 70).
Subs Not Used: Oakes, Purse.
Att: 89,874
Ref: Mike Dean (Wirral).
BBC Sport Player Rater man of the match: Portsmouth's Kanu 7.08 (on 90 minutes).
CULLED FROM: BBC Sport | | LIFE ON THE MERSEYSIDE |  Premier League side Everton have shown good form so far this season and are looking good to stay in contention for a European place.
And a driving force keeping the goals flying in at one end while blocking them at the other have been three players from Nigeria, Africa.
Nigeria's Aiyegbeni Yakubu became the club's record signing in August when the striker moved from Middlesbrough for US$22m.
Since his move the 'Yak' has hit the back of the net five times in the league, scoring his first goal for the club only ten minutes into his debut.
Not that he felt the pressure: "Being a striker there is always a demand on you to score goals and because of that we cost the most as players.
"But I'm born to score goals, and with Joseph Yobo helping me settle in here, things have gone well so far," Yakubu said.
The Toffees' strike force has been further strengthened with the emergance of Nigerian-born Victor Anichebe from the club's youth ranks.
The 19-year-old has contributed vital goals for the Liverpool-based side, furthering their progress in the Uefa Cup European competition.
"I'm a local lad, and Everton has always been well known for bringing through their own.
"They've introduced Wayne Rooney, James Vaughan, Tony Hibbert, Leon Osman and me.
"I've just taken the opportunity and I think the fans are taking to me," Anichebe added.
And leading from the back is ever-present defender Joseph Yobo, the first signing made by manager David Moyes.
The Super Eagle centre-back played every minute of every league game for the Blues last season and is the first African to captain the side.
"The manager told me three years ago that one day he would make me captain, but I just got my head down and got on with my work.
"I was delighted when he offered me the armband though, the fans are great, the place is great and I am just happy to be here.
"The difference since Moyes has been at the club is that every year we sign one or two players of quality.
"Each term the team gets better and better and I'm glad to be a part of that," Yobo told BBC Sport.
The downside of course is that all three players could be called up for Nigeria's participation at next year's Cup of Nations in Ghana.
Until then, the Super Eagle trio will aim to keep the Toffees flying high.
CULLED from: BBC Sport | | Nigeria is African Delight |  Nigeria beat Spain in a penalty shootout Sunday to win the Under-17 World Cup soccer championship.
The Africans won their third title, kicking home three goals in the penalty phase as goalkeeper Oladele Ajiboye kept the Spaniards scoreless at Seoul FIFA World Cup Stadium. Nigeria also won in 1985 and 1993.
The Golden Eaglets' goals came from Matthew Edile, Daniel Joshua and Ganiyu Oseni.
The result proved another disappointment for Spain, which has reached the final three times without a championship.
It was only the fourth time in 12 Under-17 World Cup tournaments that the title was decided on penalty kicks.
Earlier, Germany downed Ghana 2-1 for third place.
CULLED FROM: foxsports.com
| | Okocha takes Hull of a challenge | Phil Brown has taken time to drive Jay-Jay Okocha around the plusher parts of Hull, trying to impress the Nigerian veteran. Yet, Okocha is only looking forward to the Hull challenge.
"To be honest, I have been to better places than here," said Okocha, smiling. "But I'm not here because of the lifestyle, I am here to play football. That is my first target. To be honest, I can live anywhere."
Half an hour after his drive through the suburbs of East Yorkshire, one of the most naturally talented players ever to grace the Premier League was put through his final test; a behind-closed-doors friendly against Sheffield Wednesday at the club's training ground. It was a last check that, at 34, there is still life in the old legs.
Brown, the Hull manager, is convinced there is. "It's the beginning of a journey of discovery," he said, beaming. "I see the hunger in his eyes, it has not gone away. There is a sparkle. I saw it when he was on the pitch today."
When Okocha's contract was not renewed at Bolton in 2006, the Nigerian thought he had finished with England. The carrot of a final hefty payday in the Middle East was dangled. He took it.
"The life was good in Qatar but I did not enjoy the football," he added. "For me, 12 months was enough. The standard was low, but not that low. It was OK but the ambition was not there from the players.
"It was like playing for nothing. I didn't like that feeling. I had signed a two-year contract. I had another year left, but it was my option and I didn't want to take it.
"I thought I would go there and enjoy it, play for two or three years and that would be it. After two or three months I knew I wanted to come back. I did not want to finish my career like that."
He waa courted by other Championship sides when word was put around that Okocha wanted to return.
Brown, who spent four years at the Reebok Stadium as Sam Allardyce's assistant, was in pole position.
It was a timely boost for Brown, relieved that his new £1million striker Caleb Folan was released after a "comfortable" night in hospital following a head injury in Monday night's 2-1 defeat at Blackpool.
"There were numerous clubs interested in Jay-Jay and talking to him, but I was impressed with his commitment towards myself and the football club," said Brown.
"I remember the first time I met him, four or five years ago, and I was impressed. We talked about shared visions and ambitions back then. We achieved them together. He knows I have a fresh challenge here at Hull and he would like to share the challenge again.
"Every signing is a punt that you hope will go right. You take these chances in life and these risks. Jay-Jay is 34 and by his own admission he went to Qatar to retire but, having been bored on his sabbatical, he decided to reignite his career in England. We have to get used to the fact he can handle the ball in any area. You have to trust his ability. The name is not important. I am not signing the name, I am signing the player's ability. Hopefully, he has a point to prove.
"What he brought to a former club of mine was second to none, it was immeasurable, it was phenomenal. He carries a lot of respect. Jay-Jay is a big name but his ability is the important thing. Newcastle signed Kevin Keegan when they were in the Second Division and it was his ability that was important.
"I shouldn't see any problem in him settling here. I took him around the surrounding area, the suburbs of Hull are very nice, you have to sell the area."
Okocha believes Hull have every chance of reaching the elite. He said: "We can reach the Premier League. We have everything in place to be a Premier side. Hopefully it will be a matter of when.
"I had options to go to other English clubs. The manager did not have to sell the area — what convinced me was that he is not just here to settle in the Championship. My relationship with Phil was a major factor in me coming here. I am looking at the big picture.
"I am not coming on transit for 10 months. I am thinking of retiring here. I am thinking beyond one year and I want to be part of a team pushing for promotion. I think this club can be bigger than Bolton."
SOURCE: Daily Mail | | Ajayi out of squad |  Veteran defender Kikelomo Ajayi has been left out of Nigeria's squad for the Women's World Cup in China later this month.
The Super Falcons skipper failed to recover from a back muscle injury in time for the tournament, which starts on 10 September.
Also excluded from the squad because of injury is striker Vera Okolo, who is yet to recuperate from a knee problem she picked up during the All Africa Games in July.
Coach Effiom Ntiero called up Faith Ikidi, Maureen Mmadu and Yinka Kudaisi for their commitment to the national team.
The three players were sacked by Swedish club QBIK for honouring invitations to play at last year's African Women Championship.
"We have selected the best Nigeria can provide for this championship and I am confident of my players to do the country and continent proud in China," Ntiero said.
"Not having Kikelomo (Ajayi) and Vera (Okolo) is a massive blow as they are not only experienced but part of our strength.
"However, we have to forge ahead without them and go a step further this time as we have gained experience over the years."
Nigeria have been drawn in Group B, where they will face USA, North Korea and Sweden.
Nigeria have appeared in every edition of the Women's World Cup since it started in 1991.
Squad
Goalkeepers: Precious Dede, Tochukwu Oluehi, Rachael Ayegba
Defenders: Faith Ikidi, Yinka Kudaisi, Ayisat Yusuf, Ulunma Jerome, Onome Ebi, Lilian Cole, Gift Otuwe, Christy George
Midfielders: Maureen Madu, Perpetual Nkwocha, Effionwan Ekpo, Ifeanyi Chiejine, Ogonna Chukwudi
Strikers: Stella Mbachu, Cynthia Uwak, Maureen Eke, Rita Chikwelu, Chichi Igbo
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Agbonlahor dooms Blues Knight |  Aston Villa fan Zat Knight scored on his debut for Martin O'Neill's side to help shatter Chelsea's seven-month unbeaten record in the Barclays Premier League.
Knight, a £3.5million capture from Fulham, had deflected the ball into his own net on the same ground a week earlier in his final league match for Fulham.
But he was delirious with joy after heading the opening goal after 47 minutes and then with two minutes left, Gabriel Agbonlahor made sure of victory with a second goal.
Rising to the occasion: Zat Knight marks his Villa debut with the opening goal
It was the signal for Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich to leave the directors' box before the end of the game.
Defeat cost Chelsea the chance to regain top spot in the Premier League from Liverpool, the last side to defeat them in the competition at Anfield in January.
But then Villa Park has been a bogey ground for the Blues who have not triumphed there in eight seasons.
Chelsea enjoyed far more possession but they struggled to create clear-cut openings against a Villa team who defended as if their lives depended on the outcome.
Martin Laursen, after an uncertain opening, had an excellent game at the heart of the home defence despite being given a searching examination by Didier Drogba.
There was a desperation about Chelsea's play in the second half and the final whistle signalled mass scenes of joy from the majority of the 37,000 crowd.
Worryingly for Chelsea, Drogba had to be helped off the pitch at the final whistle after suffering what looked like a leg injury.
Aston Villa's Luke Moore (right) challenges Chelsea's Alex
SOURCE: Daily Mail | | Eguavoen unimpressed by Oba's no-show |  Outgoing Nigeria coach Austin Eguavoen has hit-out at English premier side Chelsea and absent striker Obafemi Martins in the wake of Nigeria's humbling defeat by their arch-rivals, Ghana, on Wednesday.
Ghana claimed the West African bragging rights with their first win over Nigeria in 15 years, a 4-1 victory at Brentford's Griffin Park in London.
Laryea Kingston's 20-yarder sparked a spate of three goals in 15, with Sulley Muntari blasting the Black Stars' second into the roof of the net.
Junior Agogo converted a cross for the third, before Taiwo Taye's penalty pulled one back for the Super Eagles.
Asamoah Frimpong scored Ghana's fourth to prompt wild celebrations.
Mikel Jon Obi played 90 minutes against Ghana despite Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho claiming on Saturday that Mikel would be out of action with a thigh injury and unavailable for international selection.
"Do I suspect that Chelsea were not being completely straight with me? I should think so," he said.
"Everybody saw how Mikel played. He did not show any sign of injury so I am a little bit surprised that Chelsea should have said he was injured.
Newcastle United cleared Martins to play on Tuesday, but he failed to show for the match and Eguavoen said he planned to take the matter "to the highest authority".
He added: "Martins, to my great surprise, was not here. He was called up to the squad two weeks ago, and Newcastle allowed him to play.
"He is nowhere to be found. I should take it to the highest authority, because it is the highest level of indiscipline and disrespect."
However, given his impending exit, it remains to be seen how much authority Eguavoen wields.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Obafemi: I'll shoot Drog down |  OBAFEMI MARTINS says he will go flipping crazy to beat Didier Drogba to the Golden Boot.
The Newcastle striker has entertained Toon fans with somersault celebrations after blasting six goals in the last seven games.
And he insists he will not stop until he has shot down Chelsea top gun Drogba in the goalscoring stakes.
Martins, 22, said: “I really and honestly believe I can reach Didier Drogba in the next few weeks.
“I have always enjoyed scoring and, with my present form, the Premiership is beginning to be interesting.
“I know I belong up there with the top scorers. I should be among the first five leading scorers in the Premiership at least.
“With seven goals, I don’t think those with nine to 12 goals are very far from me.
“If you look at my double strikes, I will soon hit the top bracket then, hopefully, go on to the Golden Boot.”
Drogba is leading the way on 12 goals.
But Martins added: “If I can beat Cristiano Ronaldo and Drogba, that would be fun.
“Look at the number of games I’ve played and the goals I’ve scored. I am young too, so I don’t think slowness will set in either.
“I respect other strikers but I am here on a mission. Of course, accomplishing it in my first Premiership season will be no mean feat.
“Learning the ropes was tough and the pressure really got on my nerves.
“But I knew the moment I relaxed and concentrated fully on my game the goals would start pouring in.
“When I hit full throttle in weeks to come, I will be devastating in front of goal.”
Martins admits he struggled to settle after his £10million summer move from Inter Milan. But he revealed fellow Nigerians Kanu and Joseph Yobo convinced him he would be a hit in the Premiership.
He said: “A lot of things contributed to my anxiety initially — changing food, environment, learning new playing patterns and trying to study the club’s style.
“It was like I was putting every foot wrong. I talked to my coaches and team-mates about it. Some of my friends, like Yobo at Everton and Kanu at Portsmouth, encouraged me and helped me settle.
“When I stepped forward to score the penalty against Reading a few weeks ago, I knew I had got my scoring rhythm back.
“The two goals against Blackburn three days later were just confirmation I was getting back on top of my game.
“In this game one can’t rule out injuries but I don’t think anything will really stop me from progressing this season.”
SOURCE: The Sun | | Vogts' deal delayed till Ghana friendly | German World Cup winner Berti Vogts will sign a deal to take over the Nigerian national team in London on the eve of the country's friendly against Ghana, officials said.
Vogts had been due to put pen to paper here but the team's sponsors want him to wait until the match against the Black Stars in London on February 6.
"We've had to postpone the contract signing with Berti Vogts at the insistence of our sponsors who prefer the coach signs the contract in London before our friendly," said Nigerian Football Association (NFA) chairman Sani Lulu.
Vogts, former coach of Germany and Scotland, was scheduled to arrive Nigeria late Saturday and meet with the country's top officials as well as sign a contract that will see him take charge of the Super Eagles for the next four years.
CULLED from YAHOO! Sports | | Newcastle free up Obafemi for Ghana friendly |  Newcastle have insisted that Obafemi Martins is free to link up with Nigeria.
The striker has been selected for his country's friendly clash with Ghana at Griffin Park, Brentford on Wednesday.
Speculation had suggested that Newcastle would refuse to release Martins for international duty, following Glenn Roeder's admission last month that he would ask his only recognised fit striker if he could sit out the game.
However, Newcastle have informed the Nigerian FA they are happy for Martins to join up with his compatriots.
"Newcastle United wishes to make it clear that the club has not refused Obafemi Martins permission to join up with the Nigerian squad for their friendly game with Ghana this week," read a statement from the club.
"The club has written to the Nigerian FA to make that clear."
SOURCE: skysports.com | | Amun refuses to leave NFA | 
The sense of crisis gripping the Nigerian Football Association (NFA) has intensified following the appointment of Bolaji Ojo-Oba as the body's new secretary general.
The outgoing secretary-general Fanny Amun has refused to hand over the reigns to Ojo-Oba, claiming that there were irregularities in his elevation to the post. The NFA Board appointed Bolaji Ojo-Oba as their new secretary general last week, thus ending Amun's two-year reign as the organisation's chief executive officer.
But Amun is refusing to go, telling anyone within earshot that the appointment of Ojo-Oba "was highly illegal and contradictory" to the NFA statues.
"Although the statutes empower the chairman of the board to appoint a secretary-general, due process also states that the appointment must be rectified by the board," Amun fumed.
"The chairman (Sanni Lulu) has not proposed it so I'm not going to hand over to someone appointed illegality.
"Since the board is yet to sit to rectify the appointment, it is therefore null and void."
But when contacted by BBC Sport, an equally enraged Lulu insisted that there was nothing wrong with Ojo-Oba's appointment.
"It's a shame that something like this is happening to our football," Lulu said.
"Everyone should bear in mind that no one is bigger than the country and its football, so we will not allow this ugly drama to continue."
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Obafemi is the lone danger |  OBAFEMI MARTINS has revealed his secret to becoming one of the Premiership’s top guns — being a complete loner.
The Newcastle striker admits he has struggled to settle in or make friends since his £10million summer move from Inter.
But he insists being cooped up at home in front of the telly has actually paid off.
It took the Nigerian hitman five months to score his first league goal for Toon.
But since then he has struck nine more times and he puts his glittering form down to staying in and watching videos of himself.
Martins, 22, said: “The secret of my ever-improving goalscoring form is being disciplined, calm and focused.
“I am very reserved and only have a few friends here.
“I am not a social freak. I stay indoors every night and watch videos of my previous games to help me identify the mistakes.
“It was not easy coming from quite a different environment with a different style of football and immediately settling down.
“But I want to get into the right form I am used to as soon as possible.
“Newcastle is a cool place and I’m enjoying living here. I live on the Quayside and I love the view of the River Tyne and the bridges.
“My brothers and my sisters and my mum are coming over next week and they will help me to settle.”
Martins quit Serie A after growing sick of the racist abuse he regularly received from fans.
He added: “I love England because I am never homesick like I used to be in Italy. The people are friendly.
“The players stand up for each other and the racist taunting one witnessed every week back there is not here.
“The English fans are so passionate about the game and idolise their players.
“The fans in Newcastle want to see me succeed which is awesome. They know my pains and seem to feel for me when I fail to score a goal. Therefore, I want to start compensating them.”
Martins has managed only one goal in the last seven games as injuries have forced Glenn Roeder to play just one up front. But the attacker —- nicknamed Obagoal — reckons he will be back to his best once he finds a permanent strike partner.
England star Michael Owen will probably not be back until the end of the season while Shola Ameobi is still battling to recover from a hip operation.
But Martins said: “My game will really improve by the time I have a permanent partner I can work with on a regular basis.
“I really believe that when I link up with a good partner, no striker in the Premiership will see my back.
“I know it would be tough but we really have to move ahead and I have the qualities to match Didier Drogba.
“The top scorers in the Premiership will really have to buckle up because the competition is getting tougher.
“I am not totally used to the English game yet but I am only 22 and I believe I will get better and better.
“I have not found the pace of the Premiership a problem, but the physical side of the game is different.
"I didn’t have the best of starts for Newcastle but recently I have been playing well and I’m pleased with how things are going.
“I have scored 10 goals already. I don’t have a target but if I keep working hard, more goals will come.
“I would certainly say that the best of me is yet to come.”
But Martins could be on a collision course with Roeder after the Toon boss banned him from playing in next week’s Nigeria friendly against Ghana in London.
However, Roeder insists he cannot risk another one of his strikers getting crocked as Newcastle rely on Martins to fire them into a Euro spot.
Roeder said: “It is only a friendly and Nigeria cannot insist on Oba playing. Because he has had so much football this season I will be asking him not to play against Ghana.
“He has already played nearly 30 games for us and has probably played more matches this season than at any time in his career.
“He is a great lad and I am sure he will understand the situation because we are a bit thin on the ground for strikers and we do not want the risk of losing him.”
SOURCE: The Sun | | AEK release Nigeria's Udeze |  Greek side AEK Athens have parted company with their Nigerian defender Ifeanyi Udeze barely six months after he joined from another Greek side PAOK.
A statement from the club said : "Following a mutual agreement, Ifeanyi Udeze has been released from his duties at AEK."
Udeze, who last played for the Super Eagles in October 2005, is part of a 20-man Nigeria squad for a friendly against Ghana on 6 February in London.
"It's a sad development for me, I have to close this chapter and move on to another, " Udeze told BBC Sport.
He last played for AEK in October before he picked up a knee injury, that needed surgery.
Udeze also fell out with coach Lorenzo Serra Ferrer and the problems came to a head last week when Udeze was banned from training with the rest of the team.
A meeting with the club's president failed to resolve the crisis.
The defender also angered the club in September when he was fined US$10,000 when he returned late from a holiday.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Swedish club axe Nigerian trio |  Swedish premiership club QBIK have cancelled the contracts of their three Nigerian players after the trio left without permission for the African Women's Championship.
Defenders Yinka Kudaisi and Faith Ikidi as well as striker Maureen Mmadu joined the Super Falcons camp on Monday against the wishes of their club.
Since the African Women's Championship, which starts in Nigeria on Saturday falls outside the international calendar, QBIK have the right to keep the players while the Swedish league is still ongoing.
But the trio defied their club ruling of the game's governing body and left Sweden on Friday without QBIK's knowledge.
"We have cancelled their contracts with immediate effect and will be taking our case to Fifa," QBIK chairman Lars-Ing Hallstenson told BBC Sport.
"I don't know where they have gone but they could have gone to Nigeria for the championship."
QBIK are just a place above bottom-placed Mallbacken in the 12-team league with one match of the season left.
Both sides meet on the final match of the season on 28 October, the same day that Nigeria open their title defence against Equatorial Guinea.
A win for QBIK will see them avoid relegation.
"We told them that they must play our last league game before they could join the Nigeria national team," Hallstenson added.
The African Women's Championship ends on 11 November.
Nigeria have won all the four editions of the tournament in 1998, 2000, 2002 and 2004.
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Obafemi Martins to miss Newcastle tie | Obafemi Martins will miss Newcastle United FC's UEFA Cup game against US Città di Palermo on Thursday night as the club look to ease concerns over a hamstring injury. Hamstring problem
Manager Glenn Roeder has said that he will rest the former FC Internazionale Milano striker for two weeks after the Nigerian complained of a tight hamstring during an English League Cup game last week. He was rested for Saturday's Premiership game against Charlton Athletic FC, a 0-0 draw. Safety first
"Oba has a tight hamstring," said Roeder. "If he continued to play for the next two weeks it would have the potential to turn into a hamstring tear. Players with the speed he has often pick up hamstring strains. We need to protect him for the next couple of weeks." Martins has played in three UEFA Cup games this season, scoring twice in the win against FC Levadia Tallinn in the first round. SOURCE: UEFA.com | CAF Women's Championship Nigeria 2006
Hosts keen to make advantage count |  Such has been Nigeria's dominance of women's football in Africa that the real question at previous African women's championships has been who will finish runners-up spot rather than who will win.
Nigeria play host to the fifth CAF Women's Championship, which gets underway at the weekend, and are again overwhelming favourites to match their gold medal success in all four of the previous tournaments. But with the top two finishers going on to represent Africa at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2007 in China, there is still much at stake in the two-week competition.
Eight countries have qualified for the tournament, which is being hosted in Oghara, Oleh, Warri and Ughelli, all situated in the country's Delta province. Nigeria host the event for the third time, having stepped in as emergency replacements when Gabon pulled out earlier in the year.
Home advantage or not, the Super Falcons are expected to again finish on the winners' podium, although the margin and measure of their dominance is decreasing with each passing year. However, coach Ntiero Effiom still commands a talented group of players and is brimming with pleasure at the experience of training a side bursting with potential. "I've been pleasantly surprised with the competition for places. It is amazing the level of rivalry among the players," he said.
A wealth of talent
Nigeria have recalled professional footballers from Europe and the USA, including the likes of Maureen Mmadu, Yinka Kudaisi and Faith Ikidi from Sweden, Cynthia Uwka from Finland and reigning back-to-back CAF Women's Footballer of the Year Perpetua Nkwocha, who plays her club football in China.
The Super Falcons open the tournament with a match against Equatorial Guinea, who are an unknown factor and participate for the first time in an African championship of any kind.The match in Warri is followed by the second Group A encounter between South Africa and Algeria, both past participants at previous African women's championships, and who meet in Oleh.
South Africa have high hopes of reaching a first ever FIFA Women's World Cup after coming narrowly close in the past. Before their side departed for Lagos on Tuesday, they met with former president, and world icon Nelson Mandela, who gave them an encouraging send off.
Former South African international August Makalakalane, once a professional at FC Zurich in Switzerland, is now coach and says: "It will be tough in Nigeria but I have no doubt that our girls are ready. This is a perfect opportunity for us to redeem our tarnished image," he added in a reference to the fact that Banyana Banyana failed to get past the first round when they hosted the last championships in Johannesburg two years ago.
Algeria have put in extensive preparation in their bid for glory, training for a fortnight in Senegal under the tutelage of coach Azzedine Chih.
Lionesses and Queens favoured to progress
Group B action will begin on Sunday with Ghana and Cameroon favourites to progress to the next stage. Cameron take on DR Congo in Ughelli in their first match while Ghana play Mali in Oghara.
Ghana have participated in previous FIFA Women's World Cup tournaments and have a strong squad, led by skipper Adjoa Bayor and have two overseas-based professionals, defenders Mavis Danso and Patricia Ofori in their ranks. Bayor is also a former CAF Women's Footballer of the Year.
The 'Black Queens' hold the distinction of being the only African side to have ever beaten Nigeria, in a group match in Warri in the 2002 event. However, coach Isaac Paha, who took Ghana's U-20 team to the FIFA World Youth Championships, has dropped several regular faces from his squad after taking them on a three-week training camp to the USA.
Cameroon also go into the tournament with an impressive pedigree, having edged Ghana out in the 2004 semi-finals, but then lost 4-0 to Nigeria in the deciding match. Charles Kandem is in charge once again with many players also returning for another tilt at the title - and the added incentive of a trip to China next year.
The final of the CAF Women's Championship will be played in Warri on Saturday 11 November.
SOURCE: FIFA.com | | Nigeria league scores $17m sponsorship deal | Nigerian Premier League (NFL) says it has signed a record-breaking sponsorship deal with the mobile phone company MTN.
The agreement is worth US$17m over four years, the NFL said.
The deal, which is the biggest sponsorship deal in the West African country's football history, earns MTN the right to be the title sponsors of the league.
Nigeria's top club competition will now be known as the 'MTN Premier League' till the 2010 season.
Oyuki Obaseki, chairman of the NFL said MTN has shown: "unwavering interest to support Nigerian football".
Africa's largest mobile phone operator in customer numbers, who are also active in the sponsorship of football in Africa, say they would continue to work with the NFL.
MTN are the main sponsors of the African Cup of Nations and the Champions League.
The company has a major presence in Nigeria, Cameroon and Uganda.
It is the second biggest operator in South Africa and controls about half of the total mobile subscriber base in Nigeria, Africa's most populous country. SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Striker Kanu's ultimate goal |  To quote of one of sport's most well-used phrases, football is not a matter of life and death - it is more important than that.
But for Portsmouth's Nigerian international striker Kanu, that is not a cliche - it sums up one of the most important parts of his life.
A decade ago, his career was almost over before it began, when he was diagnosed with a faulty heart valve.
Surgery gave him a second chance and inspired him to use his fame to save lives by setting up the Kanu Heart Foundation.
In the past year, the Foundation has arranged treatment for 250 African children with heart problems and, over the next 12 months, it hopes to help 1,000 more.
On Saturday 30 September, the Foundation marks its fifth anniversary and Nigerian Independence Day with a fundraising event in London.
"The aim is to help less privileged children by building hospitals, not just in Nigeria, but also trying to spread to Ghana, Cameroon, South Africa and the rest of Africa," the 30-year-old told BBC Sport.
Despite the Foundation's success, no hospitals have yet been built, with the money instead being spent on sending children abroad for treatment.
"We would like to build hospitals rather than send them abroad because it is much easier to treat them in Africa," he revealed.
"But we have a big waiting list, so when we raise funds, we do not usually keep them because people on the waiting list may die."
In a career that has taken in clubs such as Ajax, Inter Milan and Arsenal, Kanu has become one of Africa's most famous and high-profile sportsmen.
By the age of 20, he had already won an Olympic gold medal with Nigeria and the Champions League with Ajax.
In the summer of 1996 he joined Inter Milan but after the deal had gone through, a routine medical revealed a faulty aortic valve in his heart.
"I had played pre-season games for Inter but no first team games yet," he stated.
Kanu's career in pictures
"It was just a normal check-up that found it - it was a shock because during the Olympics, even though it had been really hot, I did not have a problem.
"At the time it was a big story - whether or not I would play again.
"When I heard the news, I spoke to other doctors to see if it was true but they all advised me to get it seen to when I was young - if I did it then, I could carry on playing football."
After a year out, he returned to action for Inter and in February 1999 joined Arsenal for £4.2m.
In the next five years at Highbury, Kanu picked up two FA Cup-winning medals, was involved in two Premiership title triumphs, won the African Footballer of the Year crown for the second time and also set up the Foundation.
"Even if you save one life, that is a lot, so to do 250 in a year - that means more than winning trophies," he said.
In the summer of 2004 Kanu left Arsenal to join West Brom, where he spent two years before moving to Portsmouth this summer.
But the fact he was invited back to play in Arsenal's first game at their new Emirates Stadium - Dennis Bergkamp's testimonial in July - shows how many friends Kanu has made wherever he has been in his career.
On 30 September, those friends will be out in force to help him raise funds for the Foundation.
"When I was at Arsenal, the manager Arsene Wenger became a patron and Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira are trustees," he said.
"A lot of people helped me at Arsenal, and they have stayed involved - we also have players from Chelsea, Tottenham, West Ham and other clubs coming along to the evening and other Nigerian players."
Money raised on the night will be spent as soon as is necessary on whatever is needed to help the Foundation save lives.
"If we got the money tomorrow to build the hospital, then that is what we would do but if you have kids who are about to die, you have to use the money to help them and get them operated on."
In the past, the Foundation sent patients to England and Israel for surgery but, with operations in England costing up to £15,000, patients are currently only sent to India, where costs are lower.
"Even if I stop playing football I will always be involved in the foundation," he revealed.
"The experience I went through with my operation makes you a stronger person - I have seen a lot. It takes away all the pressures on you. You realise there is a lot more to life than football."
SOURCE: BBC Sport | | Ocean Boys rehire fired coach Cooreman | Newly-crowned Nigeria league champions Ocean Boys have reinstated their Belgian coach Maurice Cooreman, barely two weeks after giving him the sack.
Cooreman, who has been in Nigeria since 1998, was dismissed on 20 September for making "negative comments" about the club.
But club chairman Ngor Silva said the coach has been recalled to lead them into next year's Caf Champions League.
"We have a strong bond and I respect the fact that he has since soft-pedalled in his approach to sensitive matters," Ngor Silva told BBC Sport.
"He took us to our dreamland and then the problem started, but all that is in the past now."
The chairman however denied insinuations that the Bayelsa State Government, who have since taken over as the club's financial backers, ordered his reinstatement.
"I believe in God and once he told me that we can work together again, I respect that realisation," he said.
"Mr Cooreman is expected back on Sunday to return to his post as honourable coach of the club."
Ocean Boys emerged as league champions against the odds for the first time in their history last month.
They will now represent Nigeria in next year's Champions League alongside runners-up Nasarawa United. SOURCE: BBC Sport |
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