Former Super Eagles’ striker and coach, Samson Yebowei Siasia is celebrating the end of a five year ban handed him by World Football Governing Body, FIFA.
Sports247.ng reports that Siasia took time out to celebrate his return with players, coaches, fans, and parents at his Sia One Football Academy in Abuja.
He used the moment to thank his wife for holding forte during his time out in the woods, even as he admitted that it was not an easy time for him in all aspects of life.
The Tunisia ’94 Africa Cup of Nations gold medalist and scorer of a wonderful goal for Nigeria at USA ’94 World Cup, however, opted to keep mum on speculation that he is returning to the Eagles’ technical crew for their forthcoming matches.
“The ban us over, and everything is okay. At any time I am ready to move forward,” said the ex-international fondly called ‘Sia1′ by his admirers.
“The ban is over, and now I’m thinking of the way forward. Some people are talking about me joining the Super Eagles’ crew, but no one has called me about that.
“The Super Eagles are a great team, and it takes great players to make them fly, but the present team has not been flying the way we did.
“We have our memories of the Nations Cup and the World Cup, but issues of delayed bonuses have been troubling the present ream.
“Players can’t really give their best when their bonuses are not paid.”
Siasia, who won silver as coach of the Flying Eagles at Holland 2005 FIFA U20 World Cup and of the Olympic Eagles at the Games of Beijing 2008, then reflected on the time he spent out under the hammer.
“Five years out has been tough,” he admitted.
“Times are hard in Nigeria, and as a resident of the United States, I face many challenges. The exchange rate is high, and things like that, but I thank God for everything.
“Times have been tough, but I also thank God for my wife and everyone at the academy.
“The academy has been doing well, and I thank my wife for holding it for me. I’m happy that they all came out here to celebrate with me,” Siasia eulogised.
He concluded with information about his next port of call but stopped short of making any categorical statement on an impending contract.
“I’ve been talking to some clubs, and I’m waiting for my agents to negotiate and then get back to me,” Siasia disclosed.
