The African Coaches Connect (ACC), Nigeria and African football community are in mourning following the passing of legendary coach and former Green Eagles player, Monday Sinclair.
In a message signed by the continental coaches body, Eldred Sunju-Abbey, Coach Sinclair Widely known as ‘Professor’ for his in-depth knowledge and understanding of the game, left an indelible mark on Nigerian football and that his contributions to the sport will be deeply missed.
“The Bomadi-Ijaw Born Coach Monday Sinclair (Godfather of Ijaw football); a legendary football tactician who is credited to have discovered players like Richard Owubokiri, Benjy Nziakor, Late Peter ‘Jaja’ Rufai, Finidi George, Taribo West, Emmanuel “waist breaker” Ebiede Inikio, Davidson Owumi, Idah Peterside, Binebi Numa, Imama Amapakabo and many others”,
“This great Ijaw icon’s legacy extends beyond his playing days. He coached several clubs, including Sharks of Port Harcourt, Nzalang Nacional FC in Equitorial Guinea, several other top clubs, and served as interim Head Coach of the Super Eagles in 1997. Sinclair’s impact on Nigerian football is still felt today, with many of his protégés like ACC’s founder and President; Coach Eldred Sunju-Abbey, Coach Imama Amapakabo, Richard Owubokiri, Finidi George, Idah Peterside and so many others going on to achieve great success in the sport and their respective chosen careers”,
“The African Coaches Connect (ACC) joins the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the entire African football fraternity in commiserating with Sinclair’s family, friends, and colleagues. The ACC pays tribute to Sinclair’s dedication, expertise, and passion for the game, which inspired countless coaches and players across the continent”,
“Monday Sinclair was more than just a coach; he was a mentor, a father, a confidant, a leader, and a true legend of the game,” said ACC Founder and President, Coach Eldred Sunju-Abbey who had the privilege of working with Sinclair in Port Harcourt on some of both of their endeavors, and the Nigerian Football Coaches Association, Rivers State Chapter”,
“His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of coaches and players, and his contributions to me, Nigerian and African football will never be forgotten. Sinclair’s unique teaching pedagogy and flair for discovering new talent earned him a reputation as one of the continent’s most respected coaches. His contributions to African football will be remembered for years to come”,
“Former players and colleagues have paid tribute to Sinclair, describing him as a mentor, a leader, and a true legend of the game. His impact on Nigerian football is immeasurable, and his passing leaves a void that can never be filled. As the nation mourns the loss of this football icon, we remember his achievements, his legacy, and the countless lives he touched. Monday Sinclair may be gone, but his spirit will continue to inspire and motivate future generations of Nigerian footballers. The ACC, NFF, CAF, and the entirety of the African football family pray for the repose of his soul and comfort for those he left behind”.
