Former Nigeria defender Joseph Yobo has expressed his fulfillment with all he achieved as a footballer.
The captain of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winning Nigeria team was given a grand exit from professional football by a stellar collection of football stars and legends during his testimonial in Port Harcourt on Friday.
Samuel Eto’o, Sulley Muntari, Stephen Appiah, Lomana Lualua and Laryea Kingston were joined by former Nigeria players Nwankwo Kanu, Austin Okocha, Mutiu Adepoju, Austin Eguavoen and Ben Iroha to celebrate the 101-cap Yobo.
Fielding questions from the media, the former Everton star expressed his delight with the success of the event claiming injuries hindered him from making a curtain call last year.
“It feels great. It is a big blessing to be in this position and I’m thankful to God,” Yobo told media.
“It is very emotional but I’m very happy. My family are here to see me one more time and that makes me feel good.
“Injury had denied me from announcing my final retirement and this is the first time that I’m returning to the play after a year. I’m grateful to David Moyes, Samuel Eto’o and everyone that came to support – they made my day.”
When asked if he had any regret as a footballer, Yobo who made his senior international debut against Zambia in a 2002 Fifa World Cup qualifier on 24 March 2001 said he is gratified with he has achieved, while expressing uncertainty on what the future holds after football.
“I’m very satisfied with my career,” he continued. “It takes only the grace of God to achieve what Joseph Yobo has done; three Africa Nations Cup and three World Cup appearances says it all.
“I don’t know how I made 101 caps for Nigeria, I’m thankful to God.”
Goal.com
