I’ll miss Orjinta’s leadership qualities, says Ikhana

The Peoples Elephants’ gaffer has lamented the demise of his former skipper, while revealing the qualities that made him a solid player

Coach Kadiri Ikhana has lamented the death of former Enyimba player Romanus Orjinta who died in the early hours into the new year in Enugu after complaining about his health.
Orjinta captained the Peoples Elephant to win their first Caf Champions League title in 2003.
Speaking to Goal, coach Ikhana who handled the all-conquering side expressed grief over the loss of the player he described as ‘disciplined’.

"It’s a painful one especially when you see younger ones die. It is not a good news at all,” Ikhana told Goal.
"I never expected the strong chap to give up at that young age especially when he quit football some years ago. It’s painful, very painful.
Coach Ikhana also took time to reel out the attributes of the player who had a stint with Norway’s Lillestrom and Niger Tornadoes before hanging his boots.
"He was very disciplined and hardworking. If he was not having these qualities, he couldn’t have captained Enyimba to win the Caf Champions League. Aside from these, he was very dedicated.
"I’ll definitely miss his leadership qualities. I will never forget that because he urged people to work hard especially during trainings.
"He would ensure his teammates go to bed at the right time. His leadership qualities will be sorely missed,” he concluded.
Orjinta made 13 appearances for Nigeria and was a member of the Super Eagles’ squad to the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia where they finished third.