NNL 2023: Ekiti United Face Battle of Goalkeepers As Technical Crew Braces Up

As the March 3 kickoff of the Nigeria National Football League approaches, at least 6 goalkeepers are currently jostling to win the heart of the coaching crew of Ekiti United FC.

Top among the goalkeepers is the captain, Adewale Makanjuola as well as a known face, Sikiru Adisa who had both been with the team in the last few years.

Another goalkeeper who made the team last season, Lucky Otis is hopeful of making Ekiti United squad again, though he's currently trying his luck at a scouting program in Abuja.

Four other goalkeepers namely Tomiwa, Salami, Pelumi and Bankole are also jostling for places even though 4 goalkeepers could make the final cut at the end of the screening exercise.

Ekiti United FC, goalkeeper trainer, Nicholas Adebanji popularly known as Pumpido and other members of the coaching crew have been busy drilling the players attending the screening exercise since it resumed on Wednesday with over 40 players in attendance.

Adewale Makanjuola who became the captain of the team last season having gained tremendous experience over the years however remains the keeper to beat as all eyes are on him to move up the ladder to either the Premier Football League or the National team where his contemporries  like Tolulope Ojo and Babatunde Bello are holding sway.

The team is expected to be involved in some top friendly matches as from next week while pruning of players will also take a gradual process.

Pumpido having been with Ekiti United for about 10 seasons said the cogent role of goalkeepers in any team could not be over-emphasized, hence the need to ensure the safest hands are considered while selecting the players that will make the final list ahead of the NNL 2023 season.

He promised to keep pushing for the best with the hope of helping Ekiti United to attain desired height in no distant time.