Ex-international Mutiu Adepoju has called for a more glamorous President Federation Cup, a replica of the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s.

Mr Adepoju made the call in an interview with journalists on the sidelines of the 2024 President Federation Cup final at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos.

El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri emerged victorious, defeating Abia Warriors 2-0 courtesy of a brace from Salihu Nasiru.

Mr Adepoju said there have been some dynamics in the game.

“Certainly, the FA Cup is always glamorous, as all clubs look forward to it because it involves all clubs, irrespective of their grade.

“We have clubs from all cadres of play in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), Nigeria National League (NNL), and Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO), and even non-league sides do have the same opportunity to compete.

“In comparison with the old times of the FA Cup, it was more glamorous then than what we have now, but there are other indices,” he said.

Adepoju said things had evolved, with more great players and surprise teams during the games.

“FA Cup competition is always great because it’s full of surprises because it’s not a regular league.

“In the past, we have seen a team like Leventis United that has done well in the FA Cup, even when they were in Division 2, then before they won the cup when they moved to Division 1,” he added.

The former IICC Shooting Stars midfielder said he was looking forward to when his former team, now Shooting Stars SC, would return to their glory days.

“ I am looking forward to seeing them qualify to play continental football next season,” he said.

(NAN)