Former Akwa United Gaffer, Abdu Maikaba has pleaded with supporters of the Uyo based side to be patient with his replacement, Raphael Everton. 

Maikaba, 53, guided Akwa United to their first Aiteo Cup triumph while also helping the former  Ibom Stars to a second place finish in the 2017/2018 season of the Nigeria Professional Football league. 

Speaking to the media after scuttling a win at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, an emotional Maikaba while expressing happiness for getting a draw said, “Actually I can say I was happy with the draw but when I looked at the familiar faces, all through, they were all sad and I just feel it in my mind.”

“I’m appealing to all Akwa United fans that I had to do my job and that is what I came to do,” he said.

Brazil’s Everton, 30, was brought in to build on the possessive style of play instilled into the players during Maikaba’s two-year stint at the club. 

The former Ifeanyi Ubah tactician had promised on his arrival to help the club become rampaging in front of goal while maintaining his predecessor’s philosophy. 

On his first league game, the Brazilian watched his side lose 1-0 to El – Kanemi Warriors in dramatic fashion in front of home fans. 

Determined to turn results around, United picked an away point at the Sani Abacha Stadium in faraway Kano, raising glimmers of hope of a change in fortune for the side. 

But on matchday 4, Akwa could not hold on to a 2-1 lead as Substitute, Benjamin Turba slot in a fierce shot past Cameronian Goal Keeper, Jean Efela seconds before the final whistle. 

Turning a celebrant crowd who felt appeased by Mfon Udoh’s 83rd-minute strike into a grumbling lot. 

Maikaba in the post-match press conference told newsmen he was optimistic the new coach will soon hit the ground running like himself after his arrival in Uyo. 

“I know Akwa Ibom people are patient people that is why if they are not patient people they would have not celebrated me because in my first coming, I played six games without a win, so encourage the man in charge, I believe he will deliver,” he said. 

“I’ve seen a very good team, a team that can go places, so do not be disturbed with this result let’s push ahead, I believe the result will come soonest,” Maikaba stressed. 

Everton will hope to keep his promise to the Promise Keepers when they face Nassarawa United in Lafia on Sunday.