Gbolahan Salami Opens Up On How Sunday Oliseh Denied Him England Deal

Gbolahan Salami Opens Up On How Sunday Oliseh Denied Him England Deal

Sampson Adedeji

Former Nigerian international Gbolahan Salami has revealed that former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh denied him a golden opportunity to secure a move to England, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Speaking on the Abu Azeez Podcast shared on X, the ex-Shooting Stars forward recounted the incident that led to his frustration and eventual decision to leave the national team camp.

 “We were playing in the qualifiers, and I needed just one more game to complete my required 70% national team appearances to qualify for a work permit in England,” Salami explained.

“My agent called the coach and informed him that there was a contract waiting for me in England. He pleaded with him to allow me to play that one game.”

According to Salami, despite being the captain of the CHAN Eagles at the time, Oliseh refused to field him, effectively ending his hopes of completing the requirement needed for the English deal.

“I told him this was a lifetime opportunity for me, but I realized he was trying to spoil the move,” he continued.

“At that time, he was also having issues with Emmanuel Emenike and Vincent Enyeama. He lumped all of us together and said I was rude.”

The forward said the situation became unbearable, prompting him to make a drastic decision.

“I just packed my bag and left the camp. It was painful because I knew what that chance meant for my career,” he concluded.

Salami, who was known for his power and pace during his time with Shooting Stars and Warri Wolves, represented Nigeria at both senior and CHAN levels, earning admiration for his commitment on the field.