27th October, 2010
Sani Kaita, widely regarded as Nigeria’s ‘bad boy’ of the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, is back for the next Super Eagles’ friendly match against Iran on 17 November.
The Metalist Kharkiv of Ukraine defensive midfielder was named among the 20 players listed for the clash against the Islamic Republic by the interim coach of the team, Austin Eguavoen.
Kaita expressed happiness over his invitation, saying he has been following the team’s progress since he was suspended from the team for his misconduct during the last World Cup held in South Africa.
He again apologised for the red card he received, while promising to give his best for the country in the next match and any other time he is called upon.
“I am glad to be back in the team, I am always part of the Eagles and have been praying for the team’s success during my suspension. It is great to be back and all I can say is to promise that I will give my best for my country, but I want to apologise to football fans not only in Nigeria but across the world for my action at the World Cup, I am really sorry,†he said.
It would be recalled that Nigeria, who like Greece lost their opening matches in South Africa, had taken an early lead after Kalu Uche’s free kick.
But, the Eagles lost grip of the game, shortly after Kaita was red-carded when he delibrately kicked at Greek defender Vasileios Torosidis. Nigeria lost the match 1-2 to Greece, failed to win the last group tie against Korea and crashed out in the group stage of the World Cup.