Lobi Stars unveil foreign head coach

Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi has unveiled Finnish tactician Mika Lönnström as the new head coach of the club.

At the unveiling ceremony in Makurdi on Wednesday, club chairman Philip Nongu explained that Lönnström’s appointment was part of efforts to improve the club’s performance.

Nongu welcomed the new coach, stating that Lönnström’s expertise and passion would undoubtedly elevate the team’s performance.

“We are gathered here today to introduce to the Benue community, the players, and sports journalists the newly appointed head coach, Mr Lönnström.

“He will work alongside the other members of the technical crew with the intent of improving the club’s current position and making it more competitive.

“The board is committed to repositioning the club under my leadership. The current position of the club is temporary, and I am optimistic that we will soon move out of the relegation zone,” he said.

Mika Lönnström. Photo: (X@LobiStars)

The chairman urged the players to maintain discipline, stating that it would no longer be business as usual.

He thanked Governor Hyacinth Alia for the opportunity to serve the state in this capacity.

A member of the board, James Iorpuu, congratulated Lönnström on his appointment and assured him of the necessary support for his success.

He praised Lönnström for agreeing to join the team and assured him that he would not regret the decision.

“The governor’s commitment to sports, especially football, remains unwavering. His goal for Lobi Stars to compete at the highest level remains a priority for his administration,” he added.

The club’s technical adviser, Daniel Amokachi, expressed delight in having Lönnström as part of the technical crew, noting that the club would experience positive development.

“Mika Lönnström is a man of pedigree; his work ethic will be invaluable to us. In modern football, it’s crucial to have young players who will work tirelessly.

“I’ve identified some promising young players in the team, and we will work with them as we await the opening of the transfer window for further decisions,” he said.

In his remarks, Lönnström expressed excitement at joining the Nigeria Premier Football League side. The new head coach stated that he was honoured to be part of Lobi Stars’ rich history and expressed his commitment to driving the team to success.

NAN