Rafael Everton got matching orders for trying to temper with the core of Akwa United’s squad, Elder Paul Bassey, Chairman of the 2017 Aiteo Cup Champions says.

The Brazilian who had been appointed by the management of the Uyo based side as a replacement for current Plateau United Coach, Abdu Maikaba led the side to top finish in Group B of the abridged league but failed to grab a maiden NPFL title for the side or a continental ticket amidst suspension.

Everton was nowhere on the sidelines in his side’s last game of the tourney against Enyimba and was greeted by news of a 3-0 defeat as his assistant Abaisakan Windy led the team.

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The former Ifeanyi Ubah gaffer was equally not included in the club’s roster for Aiteo Cup games shortly after the NPFL Super Six and will later announce his departure from the country signaling the end of his stay at the formerly christened Ibom Stars side.

Bassey who also doubles as Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State on Youth and Sports revealed the 30-year-old failed due to his inability to stick to the core of the squad which had been at the club for over two to three seasons.

“That’s the mistake the last coach (Rafael Everton) nearly did (wanting) to start a new team. It’s not possible.  If you tell me today to field 18 players apart from Olisema who with due respect to him wants Champions League experience, (there are) eighteen (18) players on the bench, they’re intact. So, you can only add to what you have on ground,” Bassey told busybuddiesng.com.

The two-time Federation Cup winners are yet to announce Everton’s replacement but according to a reliable source, there are indications a new coach might arrive before the end of the week as the club are poised to commence preparations for the 2019/2020 season on Monday, August 19.