Former Nigeria international Mutiu Adepoju has called on the Spanish Football Federation and La Liga authorities to look into a recent incident involving Sevilla fans as well as Super Eagles stars Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke, Footynaija.com reports.
Adams and Ejuke, alongside other teammates, faced confrontation from angry Sevilla fans last week following a disappointing defeat to La Liga bottom feeders Real Oviedo that left them only two points above the relegation zone.
The fans, who covered their faces with masks, harassed and intimidated the players after they returned to the club’s training ground with security officials needing to intervene in order to ensure the safety of the players.
Weighing in on the situation, Adepoju, who enjoyed stints in Spain with Real Madrid Castilla and Real Sociedad urged the authorities to investigate the matter, insisting that players should never have to go through such an ordeal.
What Mutiu Adepoju said
“It is not a nice thing to hear when fans have to harass or accost players. I do not think anyone should be subjected to such,” the AFCON 1994 winner said in an interview with Footy-Africa.
“I do not have all the details yet, but I don’t think it should go that far. The fans or supporters have the right to be aggrieved at how results come or how their team is faring, but they should not go as far as intimidating the players and coaches.
“I have not spoken to both players yet, but I hope they are okay. I also want the authorities in Spain to launch an investigation into the incident. Football should be enjoyed by all, and this incident is unfortunate. I hope everything can be resolved, and the players can also help Sevilla while the fans continue to support them in the right way.”
Fortunately, the Sevilla players appear to have played their way back into the good graces of their supporters following this weekend’s massive win over Atletico Madrid, with Adams contributing a goal from the penalty spot.
With only seven games left to play in La Liga this season, the Andalusians are still dangerously close to relegation waters. They’ll be looking to carry on with the momentum from their recent victory as they seek to retain their top flight status beyond the current campaign.
