Ex-Nigerian national team goalkeeper, Idah Peterside has berated Nigerian international footballer and Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen for his rude manners towards Finidi George. And as a consequence, the former keeper urged the Nigerian Football Federation to ban Osimhen from the national team if he fails to apologize.
Recall that the Napoli based international star took to his X.com to insult the embattled coach Finidi George on Friday.
But reacting to Osimhen’s outburst against George, Peterside in a viral video on X (formerly Twitter), called out Osimhen. He described Osimhen’s behavior as disrespectful and unacceptable.
Peterside said, “I think action should be taken. Or he should be banned from playing for the national team. If we allow this kind of thing to continue, it would not augur well for Nigeria. The men who have served and given everything to our great country. So, sanity must be brought to our football. He (Osimhen) needs to come outside and apologize for the things he said to Finidi.”
He continued, “Finidi George is a legend. You don’t just widen your mouth and say things that are unpalatable. If you have issues with the man, pick up your phone and call him. That’s what responsible people do. Osimhen has just shown a bit of irresponsibility, and that’s unexpected. I think the NFF should call Osimhen and ask him to apologize. He has to apologize for saying things.
“Our national team is sacred; days when we wore the jersey, we respected it. And we respected people that went before us. He’s not the first, and neither would he be the last. He should come out and apologize openly to former footballers, NFF, Finidi, and Nigerians.”
Recall that the controversy began after Finidi expressed frustration over the lack of support from the NFF during a meeting with Sports Minister John Enoh in Abuja.
Finidi had alleged that certain players, supported by influential individuals, were untouchable and undisciplined. And it was rumoured that he specifically called Osimhen out.
In responding, therefore,, Osimhen took to Instagram live to express his anger and disappointment at Finidi.
He declared that he has lost respect for Finidi.
The Napoli striker asserted that respect should be mutual. He also vowed to share evidence of their conversation to clarify the situation.
Follow us for more news on our WhatsApp News Channels @
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaC505jB4hdZ5Yx9g82U
