The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the death of former Super Eagles head coach, Monday Sinclair.
The 88-year-old football legend passed away at around 3:15 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, after battling health issues related to diabetes.
His death, confirmed by close family sources, has come as a shock to many.
Sinclair had been in and out of the hospital in recent years due to complications from the illness.
His passing also follows the death of another Super Eagles icon, Peter Rufai, just less than two weeks ago.
He was not only a former player for the Green Eagles in the 1960s but also a coach who played a critical role in grassroots football development across the country.
Sinclair discovered and mentored several players who later shined brightly in the Super Eagles squad.
Among them were Peter Rufai, Taribo West, Finidi George, and Idah Peterside.
These names have gone on to become household figures in Nigerian football, thanks in part to Sinclair’s early guidance and belief in their potential.
He began his coaching journey with Sharks FC of Rivers State, which has since been dissolved.
Later on, he took charge of Niger Tornadoes, Enugu Rangers, and Bayelsa United.
In 1997, Sinclair was named interim coach of the Super Eagles, and he also managed the Equatorial Guinea national team at a later stage.
One of his most popular mentees, Idah Peterside, shared an emotional post on Facebook describing Sinclair as a “football father.”
“He signed me to play for Sharks. Gave me my first match against the Niger Tornadoes of Minna,” Peterside wrote.
He added, “The first day he saw me come to train with Sharks, he said, ‘My friend, are you a boxer?’ He said I was built like Tyson.”
“From that day I found me a football father. I became very close to him and his family, with Puppa K as a very close brother,” he continued.
He gave hope and opportunity to young footballers at a time when structures were limited.
His passion and dedication to football development have left a mark that will not be forgotten.
May Monday Sinclair’s soul rest in peace!
Rest in peace legend