Super Eagles winger Moses Simon has accused Rangers International of denying him a professional contract because of his ethnic background during his early playing days, an allegation the Nigeria Premier Football League club has firmly denied.
Speaking in a recent interview, Simon recalled spending months on trial with the Enugu club and said he even captained the trial team. However, despite his performances, he claimed another player who had only recently joined the trials was offered a contract instead.
“I’ve never told anyone this story, it’s the first time. But it’s a disgrace, you know. That year, I was dropped, not because I wasn’t able.
“That was just tribalism, not because of my game. I was there for three months, and a guy came, I forgot his name, he’s an able guy. He just trained for one week and they signed him,” Simon said.
Explaining why he believed he was overlooked, the winger added:
“And they said it was because I was from the north, or something.”
In response, Rangers dismissed the accusation, stressing that the club has never based recruitment on tribe, religion or region.
“While we respect every player’s right to recount his personal journey, it is important to clearly state that Rangers International FC has never maintained, and does not maintain, any policy of discrimination based on ethnicity, tribe, religion or place of origin,” the club said.
The seven time Nigerian champions stated that over the years they have recruited players from different parts of the country, insisting that football ability, discipline and character remain the key factors in deciding who earns a contract.
The club also noted that not every player who attends trials is signed, as recruitment decisions depend on several football and administrative considerations rather than ethnicity.
“The club’s recruitment philosophy has always been based on footballing ability, character, discipline and commitment, not ethnic identity.
“Thousands of players have passed through Rangers over the years. Some earned contracts, others did not. Such decisions are part of football and are influenced by numerous sporting, technical and administrative considerations,” the statement read.
Reaffirming its position, Rangers said it remains committed to giving equal opportunities to players regardless of their background.
“Rangers remains committed to providing equal opportunities to every talented player regardless of ethnic background, religion or geographical origin.
“The values that define this great club are excellence, integrity, discipline, hard work and unity,” the club added.
Simon currently plays for Paris FC in France and has been a key member of the Super Eagles for several years.
