Exclusive: Regaining Lost Glory: Dele Ajiboye's Blueprint For Plateau United's NPFL Success

Former Nigeria International goalkeeper, Dele Ajiboye has expressed his disappointment with his former team's performance in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).

Ajiboye, who had a successful stint with Plateau United, admitted that he doesn't follow the league as closely as he used to. However, whenever he checks the league table, he's left unhappy with the team's position.

The former U-17 World cup winning goalkeeper was a key member of the 2017 title-winning believes that the current squad lacks the depth and talent needed to challenge for the title.

Speaking exclusively to SportsBoom.co.za, Ajiboye said he is not happy with the team's current state. "As a former player, it's painful to see the team struggling."

AJIBOYE'S CONCERNS

Ajiboye attributes the team's struggles to the departure from the principles that once made them successful.

"They need to return to their winning ways and play with the same passion and dedication that made them champions in the past."

PLAYING FOR A HIGHER PURPOSE

He believes that the team's motivation should go beyond individual interests. "They need to focus and play for the State. "When you play for the State, you're playing for the people and that's a higher purpose."

ENCOURAGEMENT AND HARD WORK

Ajiboye believes that the players need encouragement and motivation to perform at their best. "They need to be encouraged and supported," he said. "When players are motivated, they can achieve great things."

He also emphasized the importance of hard work and focus. "They need to be hardworking and focused on their goals," he added. "Football is a game of discipline and hard work. If you're not willing to put in the effort, you'll struggle to succeed."

A WINNING MENTALITY

Ajiboye's advice is rooted in his own experiences as a player. He knows that a winning mentality is crucial for success in football. "When you have a winning mentality, you approach every game with confidence and determination," he said.

He so stressed the importance of teamwork and unity. "Football is a team sport," he said. "When players work together towards a common goal, they can achieve great things."

ASSESSING THE CURRENT SQUAD

When asked if he thinks Plateau United has the right players to regain their championship status, Ajiboye was candid in his assessment."No," he replied:

He further explained, "I don't see the quality and depth in the current squad to challenge for the title."

Ajiboye emphasized the need for the team to strengthen their squad. "They need to bring in more experienced and skilled players to compete at the top level," he said.

A GOLDEN ERA

The 34-years old reminisced about the good times he had with the team, crediting the last management for creating a conducive environment for the players. "They made sure everyone was happy and motivated," he said.

THE RIGHT LEADERSHIP

The forme Pontevedra CF of Spain goalkeeper credited the former general manager with creating a positive team culture. "He made sure everyone was happy and motivated," Ajiboye said. "We were always ready to give our best on the pitch."

A WINNING FORMULA 

Ajiboye believes that the team's success during that period was due to the general manager's ability to bring out the best in the players. "We had a great team spirit, and everyone was committed to the cause," he said.

NO INSIDER KNOWLEDGE

The forme Super Eagles invitee clarified that he doesn't have firsthand knowledge of the team's current situation, but he hopes that the current management can replicate the success of the past.

A PATH FORWARD

As Plateau United continues to navigate the challenges of the the NPFL, Ajiboye believes that a return to the team's winning ways is possible with the right approach, mindset, and motivation, Plateau United can rebuild and work towards regaining their former glory.