Fidelis Ilechukwu Denies Sack Claims at Rangers International FC
Rangers International Technical Adviser, Fidelis Ilechukwu, has denied rumours about his future and dismissed claims of any problems within his coaching staff ahead of Sunday’s Nigeria Premier Football League match against Bayelsa United in Enugu.
Speaking at a pre-match briefing, Ilechukwu praised his assistant coaches and said the technical team is fully united.
“My assistants are like family. We eat together, work together, and support one another. People outside may misunderstand things, but inside we are completely united,” he said.
He also showed strong confidence in Chief Coach Ekenederichukwu Eke, explaining that Eke always leads the team whenever he is away on national duty with the Super Eagles.
“In my absence, my assistant can take charge and win matches. That is what good leadership is — training people to step up when you are not there,” he added.
Ilechukwu also addressed rumours about his future, insisting he is committed to the club.
“All those stories are untrue. It’s not possible. I have a contract with Rangers. In every club I have worked, I always finish my contract. I have never been sacked,” he said.
The former coach of Plateau United, MFM, and Heartland won his first NPFL title in his debut season with Rangers. He is now in his third season after signing a contract extension last year.
Although his second season was mixed — Rangers finished 10th with 52 points from 14 wins, 10 draws and 14 losses — he remains focused on success. In his title-winning first season, Rangers collected 71 points, with 21 wins, 7 draws and 10 defeats, and reached the Federation Cup semi-finals.
Ilechukwu also praised midfielder Kenechukwu Agu, calling him “the best in the league” and confirming he will start on Sunday.
“He is one of the best passers in the league. Sometimes he starts, sometimes he comes from the bench so we are not predictable. But he will start on Sunday,” he said.
Agu, 26, has scored 2 goals and made 1 assist in 8 league matches this season, including a superb free-kick in the Oriental Derby against Enyimba. He has played 115 matches for Rangers, with 17 goals and 10 assists.
Looking ahead to the weekend match, Ilechukwu said the team is in good shape.
“We have trained well and the players know what is at stake. Bayelsa United are not a team to underestimate. We expect a tough match, but I believe we will play well on Sunday,” he said.
Rangers, currently eighth with 22 points, will host Bayelsa United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Sunday.
