Steven Caulker has announced his resignation as captain of the Sierra Leone national football team, the Leone Stars, citing challenges stemming from a "broken system" as a primary factor in his decision.
The Turkey-based defender expressed disappointment over the team's failure to qualify for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations and their overall decline despite the players' hard work. These factors, he stated, contributed to his decision to step down.
In a statement, Caulker conveyed his pride in representing his ancestral home, Sierra Leone and announced his decision to donate his accumulated appearance fees from the 2024 AFCON qualifiers to the 'Sick Pikin Baby Project,' an initiative dedicated to the health of vulnerable children in need of surgical procedures.
The former Tottenham Hotspur player expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaching staff, and fans for their support during his captaincy. He emphasized the necessity of placing suitable personnel in strategic positions to fully realize the potential of Sierra Leonean football.
Caulker's departure signifies the end of an era for the Leone Stars. The identity of the new captain and whether this signals Caulker's complete departure from the team remain to be seen.
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