Ezeaku, Ilechukwu optimistic as Rangers regroup

Rangers G.M./CEO Amobi Ezeaku and head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu exude confidence as the Nigerian champions resume for the 2024/2025 season on Tuesday, July 9.

The management of the Flying Antelopes on Monday directed all players to hit Coal City in preparation for the upcoming season, in which they will defend the NPFL title and also fly the country’s flag in the CAF Champions League.

In Monday’s media release, both men spoke confidently about having an eventful and fruitful campaign on both fronts.

“I am quite sure that our players got the needed rest from the rigours of last season, and we expect them back to camp on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, for proper preseason activities to commence. We thank all those who were there for us in the concluded season and expect more from them as we venture into the continent to make a big impact and successfully defend our NPFL title,” said Ezeaku.

“It was a needed break for the footballers after a lengthy season that was energy-sapping, and even when more time would have been given, we can’t do that as we have to kick-start preparation for the continental competition that is scheduled to start in August. Returning early is a sacrifice we must make to realise our set target for the coming season,” Ilechukwu said.

The retained players who are expected to resume club activities are Japhet Opubo, Detan Ogundare, Ikenna Stephen, Joel Odoh, Kenneth Igboke, Austin Onyemaechi, Philip Clement, Ejike Ugochukwu, Kalu Nweke, Kenechukwu Agu, Isaac Saviour, Godwin Obaje, Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Austin Opara, Chidiebere Nwobodo, Chinemerem Ugwueze, Chiedozie Okorie, Kazeem Ogunleye, Kingsley Maduforo, Naziru Auwalu, Rabiu Muhammad, and Frank Uwumiro.

They will be joined by new signings Garando Tekena, Evans Ogbonda, Anayor Ogbonna, Ekeson Okorie, Chimobi Igwilo, Somtochukwu Nwobodo, and some others whose negotiations are still ongoing as of press time.

Meanwhile, the club have since completed all documentation for participation in the CAF Champions League and are waiting for their licensing certificate from CAF headquarters in Cairo, Egypt.