Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi has appointed Finnish tactician Mika Lönnström as their new head coach.
At the unveiling ceremony on Wednesday in Makurdi, the chairman of the Lobi Stars, Philip Nongu, stated that Lönnström’s appointment was part of the club’s efforts to enhance its performance.
Nongu welcomed the new coach, adding that Lönnström’s experience and enthusiasm will surely improve the team’s performance.
“We are gathered here today to introduce to the Benue community, the players, and sports journalists the newly appointed head coach, Mr. Lönnström.
“He will work alongside the other members of the technical crew with the intent of improving the club’s current position and making it more competitive.
“The board is committed to repositioning the club under my leadership. The current position of the club is temporary, and I am optimistic that we will soon move out of the relegation zone,” he said.
The chairman asked the players to remain disciplined, warning that it would no longer be business as usual.
He thanked Governor Hyacinth Alia for the opportunity to serve the state in this role.
A board member, James Iorpuu, congratulated Lönnström on his appointment and assured him that he would have the necessary assistance to succeed.
He praised Lönnström for accepting to join the squad and promised him that he would not regret his decision.
“The governor’s commitment to sports, especially football, remains unwavering. His goal for Lobi Stars to compete at the highest level remains a priority for his administration,” he added.
Daniel Amokachi, the club’s technical adviser, expressed his joy at having Lönnström join the technical team, predicting that the club will grow positively.
“Mika Lönnström is a man of pedigree; his work ethic will be invaluable to us. In modern football, it’s crucial to have young players who will work tirelessly.
“I’ve identified some promising young players in the team, and we will work with them as we await the opening of the transfer window for further decisions,” he said.
In his statements, Lönnström stated his delight about joining the Nigeria Premier Football League team.
The new head coach remarked that he was honoured to be a part of Lobi Stars‘ great history and pledged to lead the team to success.
