Heartland FC Relegation: Sports Writers Call For Overhaul of Management

The Imo State Chapter of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria has called on the Imo State government to overhaul the management of the relegated Heartland FC . The decision was contained in a communiqué issued by members of the Imo State Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) chapter after its congress which recently took place at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, Imo State. While commending the state governor for its support, Imo SWAN expressed their dismay over the relegation of the Heartland FC from topflight to the lower league. The State chapter of the Sports Writers Association charged the state government to overhaul and change of Heartland FC Management with a substantive Chairman or a General Manager with the capacity to reposition the Club, charisma It also noted that such person(s) should have the capacity to instill discipline in the club as well as answer directly to the Governor so as to ensure accountability and act with quick intervention when funds are delayed from the government. The body of Sports Journalists also agitated for a monthly budget for the Imo State clubs which includes the Heartland FC and Heartland Queen FC such that the clubs will have funds for a whole season on a month by month basis. It also suggested that there is a need to get a permanent camp for Heartland FC in Owerri, as this will save the club from the embarrassment faced from hotels on outstanding hotel bills which have over time affected the players and management. Heartland FC finished at the 19th position in the 2021/2022 NPFL season with 45 points and will go on relegation for the second time in five years after the state government spent approximately N1 billion for the season alone.