Monday Odigie, the head coach of Bendel Insurance, acknowledged that the departure of key players is impacting the team’s performance this season.

The Benin Arsenals played to a goalless draw against Akwa United at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Saturday.

The frustrating draw follows defeat to last week’s Gombe United at Issa Pantami’s Stadium.

Since the departure of talisman Imade Osarenkhoe, Insurance have struggled in front of goals, scoring just one goal from open play after four matches.

Odigie however emphasized that the team is currently in a rebuilding phase, and was critical of the management for not finding suitable replacement for the striker.

“We participated in continental competitions and immediately transitioned to the league, leaving us with insufficient preparation for the NPFL.

“Bendel Insurance has lost players during this rebuilding process, and these are the kind of results you can expect in such a situation.

“The league is a long journey, and we will take each game as it comes, continually working on improving the players.” He concluded.

Bendel Insurance have picked six points from possible twelve this season, although they have a game in hand.