1st September, 2011
 Sunny Shakiru is a member of Adebayo Samba Football Club of Ikotun.The dark skinned midfielder spoke about his football career and why he chose Mikel Obi of Chelsea as his role model in an interview with SUNDAY AKINTOYE
Where did you start your football career?
I have been playing for Adebayo Samba Academy since 2000 as a midfielder. I have won some laurels for the academy.
What have you achieved in the academy?
I won Oba’s Cup for the club in 2000. We defeated Dana FC 2-1 to win the competition. I was so happy because I scored the winning goal in the final. I also played for my club when we won Oluyole Cup in Ibadan,Oyo State, the same year. We defeated Coins FC of Abeokuta 1-0 to lift the cup.
You have been in this academy for eleven years, don’t you want to play for another club?
I want to take my time before I move to another club. But to be honest with you, Adebayo Samba Academy are currently doing well and I love the academy because the management gives the players necessary support to give their best.
Tell us your happiest day in the club?
The day I won the Most Valuable Player, MVP, award in Oba’s Cup. I was so happy to be adjudged the MVP Player of the tournament because I did not expect it.
Who is your role model among Nigerian players?
I like Mikel Obi of Chelsea because he is the best player Nigeria can boast of now. I try to emulate his style of play any time I play for my club. He is my role model.
A lot of your teammates don’t want to play in Nigeria Premier league before moving to Europe, what is your take on this?
I don’t blame those who don’t want to play in the local league because it is no longer attractive. But for me, I can play for Enyimba Football club of Aba.
Where do you want to start your football career in Europe?
I would love to start with Chelsea FC because the club has great players. The way Mikel Obi plays in Chelsea inspires me to support the club and I wish to play for the club someday.