Invalid Mandatory Medical Cert: Super Eagles goalie Uzoho suspended and fined

Francis Odinaka Uzoho, Nigerian professional footballer, plays as goalkeeper for Cypriot first division side Anorthosis Famagusta and the Nigeria National Team - Getty

Francis Uzoho, Super Eagles of Nigeria goalkeeper has been handed a one-match suspension and fined €1,000 by the Cyprus Football Association following complaint of ineligibility by Apollon Limassol.

20-year old Uzoho from Spanish side Deportivo La Coruna linked up with Cypriot club, Anorthosis Famagusta on a six-month loan deal on the final day of the winter transfer window.

He made his debut two days later in Anorthosis Famagusta’s 1-0 win against Apollon Limassol.

Limassol later filed a protest with Cyprus Football Association claiming Uzoho was ineligible to feature in the game.

They questioned the valdity of the mandatory medical certificate submitted by Anorthosis on behalf of the player as they insisted Uzoho arrived Cyprus hours after the KOA office had shut down on February 1.

Uzoho reportedly informed the Police that the medical certificate was prepared for him while he was in flight en route Cyprus – which by implication suggested that he did not undergo necessary medical tests before the issuance.

According to a report in miamiherald.com, the Cyprus Football Association has ruled that Uzoho’s certificate is invalid and Anorthosis consequently forfeit the win over Apollon and additional three points deducted, totaling six points as deficit.

Uzoho who was omitted from Anorthosis’ squad for the last two league games against Nea Salamis and AC Omonia will miss also this weekend’s clash against Ermis as result of the suspension.

A police investigation is currently underway. Last week, a Cyprus court ordered a 42-year-old man to be held in police custody for three days, but he was released without investigators seeking to extend his detention.
CompleteSports