Deutcsh tasks LMC on completion of NPFL

Two-time former Abia Warriors technical adviser, Emmanuel Deutcsh has tasked the League Management Company (LMC) to ensure completion on the pitch the 2019/20 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

The 20-team domestic top-flight has not been played after matchday 25 fixtures due to the global outbreak of coronavirus.

Deutcsh said unlike two seasons ago when Lobi Stars were declared champions the differences this time in the number of matches played by each team made it necessary to see off the remainder of matches on the season’s calendar.

“Two seasons ago when Lobi Stars were declared champions all the teams were on the same number of matches.

“Right now majority of the teams have played lesser number of matches and the outcome of those matches will greatly affect placement of the teams on the league table.

“Enyimba, for instance, have played five matches less than other teams and if they win the outstanding matches they are sure to topple current leaders, Plateau United.

“Teams like Enugu Rangers, Kano Pillars, Katsina United, Warri Wolves have one match each to play to come on level term with others.

“And the outcome will significantly affect the placing of the teams so how can you end the league in such a situation.

“Enyimba, particularly will rightly feel short-changed in the event of discontinuing with the league.

“The fairest step LMC should take is to ensure the remaining 13 matches on the calendar are completed on the field of play.

“It does not matter if the matches would be played behind closed doors, without the spectators or at a neutral ground.

“Most of the teams are government sponsored how they will account for the various funds expanded on them for the season.

“The same thing applies to the lower leagues their various league bodies must ensure the season’s calendar run its full course in order to help their managers justify the grants received from their sponsors.

“Some of them will naturally earn promotion at the end of the day and that will be the receipt they will take back to their sponsors.

“Nigerian leagues are huge they can afford all the precautionary health measures by the authorities aimed at completing their seasons.

“We can afford the whole health measures if we want to and that will go a long way to step up the credibility of the league in the eyes of international community,” said the former Delta Force and Heartland gaffer.

The Cameroonian tactician parted ways with the Umuahia Warriors on February 17, 2020 after the oriental derby with sister team, Enyimba due to irreconcilable difference over salaries.