We’ll miss you – Super Eagles to Ikeme

SUPER Eagles players have joined millions of football fans all over the world to pay tribute to Carl Ikeme, who announced his retirement from football at the age of just 32 on doctor’s advice after a year-long battle with cancer.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper, who started the journey to FIFA 2018 World Cup with the Super Eagles but missed out of the final squad to Russia, was diagnosed with acute leukaemia in July 2017.

The 32-year-old revealed last month that he was in ‘complete remission’ after being diagnosed with acute leukaemia in July last year.

Super Eagles through its official Twitter handle, @NGSuperEagles, thanked the shot stopper for the memories shared with the team.

“Thank you @Carl_Ikeme for the memories and we wish you all the best in life as you continue to triumph! #ThankYouCarlIkeme,”

Leicester City forward, Ahmed Musa posted on his Instagram, saying, “Carl, you have been a great brother and teammate. I want to wish you well in the next chapter of your life. You have been fighting your battle for a long time and you are in my prayers. May you be blessed with great new beginnings and good health #Soldier @carlikeme.”

Chelsea defender, Kenneth Omeruo also shared his heartfelt message on his Instagram account, saying, “I would have love to play with you more my bro @carlikeme .. but am happy you will be with us in good health.. you are a legend bro.. and am sure Nigerians will miss seeing you in the national team.. Good luck my brother and like u said, it’s not a sad day.. ❤ where is the retirement party do 😬🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌.”

Super Eagles defender, Shehu Abdullahi was not left out, wishing Ikeme quick recovery.

‏ “All the best in life. Wishing you quick discovery,” he posted on his verified Twitter account, @OfficialShehu.

Super Eagles vice-captain Ogenyi Onazi also wrote: “Thank God for your life and your health, this is most important bro ❤❤🙏🏾🙏🏾 @carlikeme.”

Daniel Akpeyi also wrote: “Thank God you got your life back bro, better things ahead.”

John Ogu added: “Thank God for restoring back you Health. And Good luck with your next Chapter. ❤❤❤.”

Kelechi Iheanacho said, “Gods grace will always be with you carl you will be remembered 🙌🏾.”

Ikeme made 274 domestic career appearances in all competitions, with over 200 of them coming for Wolves, the club he joined in 2000 as a 14-year-old.

The stopper went on to win two promotions, and ten international caps for Nigeria.