Akwa United head coach Rafael Everton has hailed the game-changing impact of youngster Emmanuel Charles in Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Gombe United at the Pantami Stadium in Gombe.
The hosts were firmly in control of the game after Usman Musa’s deflected strike had given them the lead in the first half but Everton’s men turned the rescheduled Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Match Day 2 game on its head following the introduction of Emmanuel Charles.
Charles headed home Mfon Udoh’s corner in the 78th minute to draw his team level before he returned the favour to Udoh in the 84th minute after both players had brilliantly exchanged passes from the middle of the park.
“I see the progress for Charles. He’s been training well and hard too,” the Brazilian coach told www.aclsports.com
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“I spoke with the coaches that we needed to bring Charles for this game (against Gombe) because he would help us.
“He is a young player and I’m very happy that he came on and played good football. Played well, scored a goal, made an assist for Mfon (Udoh),” added Everton.
Everton has braved an initial lethargy that befell his team and has somehow built an invincible side which has remained unbeaten in their last six games, winning four and drawing two. He believes the contributions of squad players like Emmanuel Charles is very good for his team.
“It (Charles’ display) is very good for me, good for the team and is good for him because after this game now, he will have more confidence to play.
“I’m very happy for him and like I said, it is very good for the team because I give chances to all the players. I have thirty-five players and it is good for players that come in to do well. I’m very happy,” said Everton.
