Super Eagles’ coach, Salisu Yusuf has pointed out that emphasis on youth development and grassroots football would go a long way in guaranteeing the future of Nigerian football.
Speaking during the just concluded Diamond Cup 2015 in Umuahia, Yusuf told SportingLife that the quality of matches on display in the competition and the personalities that graced the competition showed that the organisers , spearheaded by Prince Martin Apugo did a good job during the preparation leading to it.
He said the presence of Manchester City scout, Joe Shields from the beginning to the end of the competition showed that some of the players spotted during the Diamond Cup 2015 would be well guarded towards actualising their dreams of becoming professional footballers.
Abia Warriors Feeders won the three day competition after they pipped Diamond U-17 christened Manchester City in the final 4-3 on penalties after regulation time ended 1-1.
Andra Ibelezim of Diamond U17 emerged as the Most Valuable Player(MVP) of the competition while Ugo Osuagwu of Abia Warriors Feeders was the highest goal scorer with four goals.
Diamond Academy Goalkeeper, Bright Lucky was adjudged the Best Goalkeeper.
Ibelezim, who doubles as the captain of Diamond Academy team, was awarded a home theatre while Lucky also of Diamond went home with a phone.
The President of the Diamond Football Academy, Prince Martin Apugo told SportingLife that he would ensure that the competition is sustained.