•••Appoints Him, Kayode Idowu As Match Readers
In a significant move to bolster the tactical analysis of their team, the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA) has appointed former Sunshine Stars captains, Abe Sunday and Kayode Idowu, as match readers for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) club. This announcement comes shortly after Abe Sunday, the club’s longest-serving captain, officially retired from professional football.
Hon. Bamidele Ologunloluwa, the Executive Chairman of the ODSFA board, expressed his admiration for Sunday’s contributions to the club over the years. In recognition of his service, Ologunloluwa announced that Sunday’s number 10 jersey would be retired for at least one season, serving as a tribute to his leadership and dedication.
“Abe Sunday is our pride in Ondo State and in Nigeria at large,” Ologunloluwa said. “His experience is well needed in the team, and that is why we appointed him and his colleague as match readers. As a board, Ondo State Football Agency, we congratulate our longest-serving captain as he hangs his boots.”
Abe Sunday, who led Sunshine Stars until the 2023/2024 NPFL season, has had an illustrious career, representing Nigeria at various levels, including the U-17 AFCON and World Cup qualifiers, the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt, and later with the national U-23 team and the home-based Super Eagles. His experience on the international stage, coupled with a stint at Teuta Durres FC in Albania during the 2017/2018 season, has made him a respected figure in Nigerian football.
Kayode Idowu, who also brings a wealth of experience to the role, once represented the Super Eagles in a match against Madagascar in 2001. His appointment alongside Sunday is seen as a strategic move by the ODSFA to tap into their deep understanding of the game.
Ologunloluwa underscored the importance of keeping such experienced individuals within the fold, stating, “Their insights and knowledge of the game are invaluable. We believe they will play a crucial role in analyzing matches and helping Sunshine Stars achieve even greater heights.”
