Nikyu moots Super 6 play-off option to end NPFL

Nasarawa United technical adviser, Bala Nikyu has said the League Management Company (LMC) should not be faulted if they decided to use the Super 6 play-off option to conclude the suspended 2019/20 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

LMC officials have until now seemed undecided on the best approach to adopt after proposing four options to successfully complete the 20-team top-flight which was suspended after matchday 25 fixtures due to the global outbreak of coronavirus.

LMC boss, Shehu Dikko, in a chat with local media called strongly for the rounding up of points through the Points per Game (PPG) model which would allow the top six teams to engage in Super 6 play-off to determine the champions as well as continental representatives.

Nikyu said the cost and requirements to restart the league in its entirety with the coronavirus pandemic still raging would be massive.

“I understand that majority of African countries have ended their leagues due to the coronavirus pandemic we must equally find a way around our own, too.

“However, if we insisted on completing ours fully there are clearly stated steps we must take which I know will be difficult to comply it by all the teams.

“For instance there will be several tests to be conducted on the players every now and then to be sure none of the players has contracted the dreaded coronavirus. The test procedure alone I know is a bit difficult not to talk of other health measures to be put in place.

“Of course, there will be the financial implication, too to consider trying to complete the season normally.

“Virtually all the governors who happen to be the financiers of most of the teams are concerned at the moment with how to secure their people from the ravaging coronavirus than spending money on football.

“So the consideration for Super 6 play-off may not be a bad idea. It may not be the best or meant to favour or disfavour any team. I do not think it will be a decision anybody will want to challenge except the person is running away from reality.

“Of course, I will not object to the plan because I know it’s in the best interest of everybody.

“Like I said earlier several African countries have ended their leagues so if LMC considers an option to end ours it might not be improper.

“If LMC decides to call on the first six teams to head off to play Super 6 that will not be bad because by the time we settle down there will be teams to represent us at the continent,” said former Wikki Tourists coach.

The Nigerian women cadet coach said the Super 6 play-off option will help teams to plan better for the next league season.

“If the Super 6 play-off holds it will give teams enough time to plan ahead for the next league season.

“It will give teams even opportunity to meet up with the laid down conditions but if we are thinking of the old season it will be tough for teams to meet up the new conditions on a short notice,” said the former Niger Tornadoes gaffer.

Nasarawa United are 17^th on the 20-team top-flight log on 29 points 20 behind leaders, Plateau United.