Frank Edoho, renowned for hosting the popular Nigerian game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” recently shared his passion for sports, particularly football, in an interview. Edoho revealed his active participation in sports during his school days at St. Patrick’s College and the University of Calabar, where he played badminton and football respectively. While acknowledging his footballing prowess, he explained that his father’s emphasis on traditional professions like engineering, medicine, or law steered him towards academics. Despite his eventual career in broadcasting, Edoho’s love for football persists, and he continues to play regularly, showcasing his skills as a midfielder on Lagos Island. He expresses no regrets about not pursuing a professional football career, attributing success in sports to a combination of talent, attitude, and luck.
Edoho identifies himself as a staunch Chelsea supporter, even humorously claiming the title of “President of Chelsea on Twitter,” a moniker bestowed upon him by fellow fans. However, his enthusiasm for the club has waned under the new American ownership. He criticizes their data-driven approach to player acquisition, likening it to baseball recruitment strategies and arguing that football demands a more nuanced assessment of player potential beyond mere statistics. This shift in the club’s management philosophy has dampened his fervor, contrasting with his earlier, more passionate support.
Edoho’s allegiance to Chelsea spans over two decades, originating during the era of Dennis Wise’s captaincy. He fondly recalls the days of players like Roberto Di Matteo, George Weah, and Ruud Gullit, emphasizing the team’s fighting spirit despite not consistently vying for the league title. He credits Roman Abramovich’s acquisition of the club for transforming Chelsea’s fortunes and revolutionizing the Premier League landscape. Abramovich’s strategy of assembling a squad of top-tier players, rather than relying solely on developing talent through the ranks, resonated with Edoho and solidified his admiration for the club’s approach. He even recounts an anecdote about Abramovich’s near-purchase of Tottenham Hotspur, highlighting the serendipitous nature of Chelsea’s transformation.
Initially drawn to Chelsea because they represented the underdog, Edoho admired their resilience and the character of their players. The club’s subsequent success under Abramovich further cemented his loyalty. He draws a parallel between Abramovich’s chance encounter with Chelsea and Willian’s similar experience, suggesting a theme of destiny and unexpected turns of fate. Edoho’s connection to Chelsea goes beyond mere fandom; it’s a testament to his appreciation for resilience, character, and the unpredictable nature of football.
When asked to name his all-time favorite Chelsea players, Edoho selects a formidable trio: John Terry, Didier Drogba, and Eden Hazard. He praises Terry’s unwavering leadership, citing a specific incident where the captain returned to the pitch, bandaged and bloodied, to celebrate a victory after being injured. Drogba earns Edoho’s admiration for his on-field presence and ability to inspire, describing him as a leader in attack who demanded the ball even when heavily marked by opponents. Lastly, he characterizes Hazard as “poetry in motion,” a player whose natural talent often defied conventional training regimens. He notes Hazard’s unique ability to deliver spectacular performances despite a seemingly relaxed approach to practice, speculating that his move to Real Madrid might have been a well-timed exit before a potential decline in form.
Shifting focus to the Nigerian national team, Edoho unequivocally declares Jay-Jay Okocha his favorite Super Eagles player of all time. He labels Okocha a “magician” on the field, recounting an anecdote about Ronaldinho’s astonishment at Okocha’s skills during their time together at Paris Saint-Germain. He paints a vivid picture of Okocha’s innate connection with the ball, emphasizing his natural talent and describing it as a magnetic attraction. This unwavering admiration for Okocha highlights Edoho’s appreciation for exceptional skill and artistry in football, showcasing his deep understanding and passion for the sport.
