Deportivo La Coruna of Spain goalkeeper, Francis Odinaka Uzoho has received an apology from the club’s coach, Carmelo del Pozo, but the gaffer insists the Super Eagles’ rookie will remain third choice at the club.
However, in contrast with the strong words he used to rubbish Uzoho’s chances of getting a starting spot few days ago, del Pozo softened his stand and said he truly recognises the keeper’s talent, only that two others are currently ahead of him in the pecking order.
Uzoho’s chances of gaining promotion at the club have been reduced, after their signing of another keeper in Ortola, and the coach said the Nigerian lad cannot be his first choice.
However, the gaffer’s choice of words during the unveiling of David Simon appeared to ridicule Uzoho once again, and many felt some racial connotations based on the context.
The coach said back then: “I hope they do not forget that they are where they are thanks to Deportivo, because they opted for them, others coming from Africa when they did not have clothes or money.”
However, during the presentation of another new player, Domingos Duarte this week, the coach revealed that he spoke with Uzoho over the matter and said he apologised about the comments that were viewed as a racist remark.
He said: “The next day I spoke with Francis and I gave him my explanations and apologies. Our idea has not changed from the first day and it will not change.”
