By Amaechi Agbo
Baring last minutes change in plans, Enugu State Government is working round the clock to appoint current Plateau United Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu as Rangers International FC new manager.
Ilechukwu who is rumoured to depart the 2027 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL winners after the current season, is expected to comence work with Rangers in the new 2023/2024 NPFL season.
It’s gathered that Ilechukwu is being considered by Rangers owners considering his vast knowledge in the league.
Prior to his sojourn in Jos with Plateau United, Coach Ilechukwu distinguished himself in the NPFL following his stint with MFM FC. He also managed Heartland FC of Owerri and twice saved the club from going down the relegation despite financial difficulties.
Enugu Rangers struggled throughout the abridged 2023 NPFL season and only managed to escape relegation. The team’s condition was made worse following the inability of the Enugu State Government to complete the renovation work at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium pitch almost two years after the contract was awarded in October 2021.
Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, popularly known as”The Catchedral” has been Rangers home since their formation in 1970.
The Flying Antelopes played their 2022 and 2023 NPFL seasons home matches in Awka, Anambra State.
The club currently does not have a Team Manager and a General Manager as the owners refused to appoint new hands to manage the team following the resignation of the former occupants.
It is not clear at press time if Ilechukwu’s appointment will be made official before May 29 handover in the state.
