Nigeria has lost a football legend, Monday Sinclair, a former interim coach of the Super Eagles. He passed away at the age of 88 after a long battle with diabetes.

The news of his death was confirmed by ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peterside Idah, who paid a heartfelt tribute to him on Facebook.

“Our daddy is gone. What a man,” Idah wrote. “He signed me to play for Sharks and gave me my first match against Niger Tornadoes of Minna.”

Sinclair briefly coached the Super Eagles in 1997 after French coach Philippe Troussier was sacked. During his time in charge, he led the team in two friendly matches against Zambia and Tunisia.

But Sinclair's legacy goes far beyond his short spell with the national team. He is widely respected for discovering and mentoring some of Nigeria’s biggest football stars, including Peter Rufai, Taribo West, Finidi George, and Idah Peterside.

His eye for talent and dedication to grassroots football earned him the respect of many in Nigeria’s football community.

Sinclair’s contribution to Nigerian football, especially in identifying and nurturing future stars, will never be forgotten.