By Victor Kanayo
Veteran Nigerian goalkeeper Femi Thomas has announced his readiness to retire from playing football with the end of the current season in the country.
The regular football season has officially ended in Nigeria, but the traditional Federation Cup final which is slated for Saturday June 29, 2024 is yet to be decided in Lagos.
The Cup final is between two clubs – Abia Warriors and El-Kanemi Warriors.
Thomas Illustrious Career
Thomas who plays for the Umuahia outfit is expected to mount the goal post for Abia Warriors on the day before he hangs boot, after 22-year long career.
The legendary shot-stopper had an incredible 22 years in the NPFL and 24 years as a professional player.
He has previously played for Enyimba FC, Kano Pillars, Rangers International, Ocean Boys, and Nasarawa United, among others.
He won two league titles, three FA Cups and has one last game with Abia Warriors in the President Federation Cup final to add to his laurels.
Olorunleke Farewell To Enyimba
Meanwhile, Super Eagles goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke has said he will forever be grateful for the role his club Enyimba and its fans played in his career as he departs Nigeria for Sudan in few days, where he secured a move to Al Merrikh on a two-year deal.
Olorunleke officially announced his departure from the club after the final league game on Sunday.
He said, “I appreciate Enyimba and their fans for the love they showed me throughout my stay.
“They made me who am I today, so till the end of time, I owe Enyimba and the whole Abia city everything of my life.”
His move also attracted two other Nigerian players to Sudan, a country grappling political survival with its clubs opting to play in nearby Mauritania League.
