Akpabio confirms pre-season rating

By Ojeikere Aikhoje
georgeakpabio.blogspot.com


Akpabio is one of the few youngsters who have achieved stardom within a short time in the elite class. .

The youngster rose through the ranks to become a top star at Plateau United, one of Nigeria’s most famous clubs.

For over seven years, Plateau United was in the wilderness, but Akpabio’s goals eventually boosted their return to the elite class this term.

He also emerged the club’s highest goal scorer in the Nigeria National League (NNL) as they battled through to the Premier League.

Pre-Season Rating
His top performance earned him a place in SuperSport.com’s ‘10 to watch in NPL this season.’

Although Plateau United has been struggling to adapt to lifeamongst the big boys, the former student of St. Murumba’s College, Jos, has already proved SuperSport.com right with his goals.

Akpabio is the leading scorer at his team with three goals.

Others listed by SuperSport.com are Chris Madaki (Juth), Joseph Thompson (Kano Pillars), Emeka Eze (Enugu Rangers), Ousmane Papa Sane (Sharks), Kelvin Kparkor (Kwara United), Magnus Iwuoha (Enyimba), Andrew Michael (Ocean Boys), Bright Ejike (Sharks) and Chinedu Udeh (Heartland).

His profile at the highly influential SuperSport.com on the eve of the present campaign is produced below:

“He is strong and has the ability to shoot with precision. Akpabio also has the qualities of good positioning and the ability to dribble.

“Just few days ago, he completed 17 years and has been named in the seniors of Plateau United for their Premier League campaign in the new season following his impressive performance in the lower league last term in which he finished as the club’s top scorer with eight goals.

“The striker was groomed through the youth ranks of Plateau United before he was elevated to seniors of the club. Akpabio is one of the reasons Plateau United have found themselves back in the top-flight after six years in the lower league.”

Interestingly, he scored two of his goals during road trips at Zamfara United and Shooting Stars.

Childhood:
Akpabio is a typical Jos boy having attended college in the city.

“I’ve lived in Jos all through and I’m enjoying my life at Plateau United. We may be in a difficult situation now, but there will soon be changes ahead,” he told georgeakpabio.blogspot.com.

“Football has always been in me, Moreover, my secondary school is well known for its ability to raise football youngsters. I benefited from the system at St. Murumba,” he said to georgeakpabio.blogspot.com

Plateau United:
The youngster believes his presence in Plateau United was divinely orchestrated.

“I saw the team training one and day and decided to join them. The coaches gave a chance and were convinced of my ability after watching me. I have remained at the club since then,” he stated.