Sodje urges NFF to retire jersey number 4 in honour of Keshi

Former member of the Super Eagles, Efe Sodje, has called on the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, to withdraw the number 4 jersey famously worn by late coach and captain of the national team, Stephen Keshi, as a mark of respect for the legend.

Keshi died in Benin City, Edo State, in the early hours of Wednesday.

Sodje said on Friday, “I’m lost for words over the death of Keshi. I still can’t believe he is gone at just 54.

“As a mark of honour, I want the authorities to retire the number 4 jersey from the national team. It will be a very big way to honour him.”

Sodje was a member of the year 2000 Africa Cup of Nations silver medalists, when Keshi was the Eagles assistant coach.

Sodje said he enjoyed playing under him at the competition co-hosted by Nigeria and Ghana.

He added, “I had the privilege to work under him in 2000; you could tell why he was called the Big Boss.

“Keshi had the presence. He opened the doors for many people to flourish. His death is a big loss to Nigerian and African football. We will continue to miss him.”