Published: September 16, 2024
MONROVIA — Former Lone Star captain Allen Njie has apologized for a ‘silly’ comment he made about local players following Liberia’s 3-0 defeat to Algeria in the AFCON25 Qualifier on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at the SKD Stadium.
In a post on his official Facebook page on Thursday, September 11, 2024, the former LISCR FC midfielder stated that foreign-based players “look stupid” when playing alongside local players during international matches.
“A bunch of local-based players will always make international players look stupid on the field,” Njie remarked. The 25-year-old unattached Liberian international added, “Give Cristiano Ronaldo a Lone Star jersey, put him among the local players, and see what he’s gonna do.”
Njie also criticized Liberia, describing it as an “unserious country” that continues to pay millions to “corrupt politicians” in salaries and benefits.
He went on to say: “What were you expecting—a non-serious-minded country to win against a very serious-minded country that invests millions in its national team? Let’s continue to pay millions to corrupt politicians for salaries and benefits.”
After facing widespread criticism on social media, particularly for his remarks about local players, Njie issued an apology.
“My sincere apologies to everyone for my earlier comments, especially to my fellow PLAYERS,” he wrote. “We’ve represented Liberia with our sweat, tears, and blood. As a former captain, it was never my intent to speak lowly of the group I’ve worked with for years. The National Team of Liberia remains our top priority, and it has always been a pleasure working with everyone at all levels. I remain committed to working for the greater good of our beloved country, Liberia.”
Current Liberia coach Mario Marinica has invited more local players compared to foreign-based ones in the past six international matches.
Njie was last called up to the national team under former coach Ansumana Keita, who failed to win a single match with a majority international-based squad. He was a regular fixture in Keita’s squad, but many football pundits criticized his performances and his lack of discipline in his role as a defensive midfielder.
Njie is currently unattached. Liechtenstein side FC Vaduz announced on April 30 that they would not be extending his contract after the end of the season. He made 15 appearances for the club. Njie has earned 20 international caps for Liberia at the senior level.
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