The Nigeria Football Federation and Super Falcons Head Coach Thomas Dennerby are allegedly locked in an impasse after the Swede reportedly quit his position over what he says is ‘interference on job’ from FA officials.
News of Dennerby’s decision, to walk, broke on Monday; 24 hours after invited players were expected to arrive the Falcons team camp in Abuja ahead of a Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games qualifying Tournament tie against Ivory Coast.
Meanwhile, the NFF have acted swiftly, naming U20 Women’s coach Chris Danjuma and his back room in temporary charge of the Super Falcons.
In another twist, Minister of Sport, Sunday Dare tweeted on Monday that he will “step in” to “seek a quick resolution” and “ensure he (Dennerby) continues” as Falcons Coach.
The Minister’s tweet reads: I have personally stepped into the matter of Thomas Dennerby, the Coach of Super Falcons. I received a brief this morning and will proceed to seek a quick resolution to ensure he continues to Coach Nigeria’s female team.
I have personally stepped into the matter of Thomas Dennerby, the Coach of Super Falcons. I received a brief this morning and will proceed to seek a quick resolution to ensure he continues to Coach Nigeria’s female team.
— Sunday Dare (@SundayDareSD) September 16, 2019
The Minister stated he received briefing on the situation, but his intended oversight on the matter also threads a thin line of interference of what is an industrial dispute between the Federation and its employee.
No official statement has been issued by the NFF, but the home based players called up for camping, held their first practice session on Monday.
30 NWPL players and 7 foreign based players were invited for the double header against Ivory Coast.
It is believed the list of invitees was drafted without Denenrby’s full consent and the Swede had voiced his displeasure over some omissions – especially players who spoke out when the team was owed bonuses at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.