7th April, 2011
Olaniyi Animashaun plays for Unity Football Club of Ejigbo.His skills and creativity stands him out among his peers in the club. His football artistry and commitment to the club earned him respect in the club. In a chat with Grassroots Soccer Guide, he bares his mind on the challenges facing his football career
Where did you start your football career?
I started my football career in 2001.I once played for the defunct Arena Football Club of Ejigbo.Later, I decided to move to Unity Football Club of Ejigbo.
Since you joined Unity FC, have you won any trophy with the club?
I’m not really happy that I have not won any trophy with the club since I joined them in 2001.We always crash out in the group stage in most of the competitions that we’ve participated.I want to win at least a trophy with the club before I leave.
Where do you intend to go if you leave Unity FC?
I want a new challenge and I have been praying to see a club that would approach me and I ‘m ready to give my best.
Which amateur club would you like to play for?
I like to play for Staruf Academy owned by former Nigeria Super Eagles’ goal keeper; Peter Rufai.The academy is a place to be, where I can be exposed to tough matches and competitions regularly.
You are a left full-back for your club, but many people reason that you would be a better player in the midfield because of your skills and creativity on the ball, what is your reaction?
It is true that I’m not fit to be a left full-back. I think it is left for the coach to decide.Mind you, I’m a utility player. I’m ready to play any wing.
Who are those that are supporting your football career?
(Laughs) Nobody is supporting my football career. People who live around me don’t encourage me to play football. There was a time I wanted to quit because nobody encourages me to play.
Why did you say you want to quit football?
I wanted to quit football because I don’t have sports kits to play football at a particular period. There are some people I think they will render help during my trying time but they didn’t.
Apart from football, what other job do you do to complement your football career?
I’m a fashion designer. The little proceeds from it, I spend on my football career
How do you merge both?
I don’t train everyday.so,I used some off training days to face my fashion design job.