Ex-Super Eagles interim coach and iconic Nigerian football figure, Monday Sinclair, has passed away at the age of 88.
Monday Sinclair’s death was reportedly linked to complications from a prolonged battle with diabetes, occurred on Wednesday around 3:15 p.m., according to multiple sources.
Former Nigeria goalkeeper, Peterside Idah, broke the news in a heartfelt Facebook post, describing Sinclair as a major influence in his early football career.
“Our daddy is gone. What a man. He signed me to play for Sharks. Gave me my first match against Niger Tornadoes of Minna,” Idah wrote.
Monday Sinclair, who briefly took charge of the Super Eagles in 1997 following the exit of Frenchman Philippe Troussier, managed two international friendly matches against Zambia and Tunisia during his stint.
Over the years, he earned widespread respect in the Nigerian football community for his talent-spotting ability. He is widely credited with discovering and nurturing some of Nigeria’s biggest football exports, including Peter Rufai, Taribo West, Finidi George, and Peterside Idah.