Adepoju returns to Spanish field
Phil Minshull BBC Sport, Madrid
THREE World Cups, three African Cup of Nations and more than 50 appearances for Nigeria haven't jaded Mutiu Adepoju's appetite for football.
The nomadic Adepoju has had stints at clubs in Qatar, Turkey and Cyprus in the last three years but he has now come back to Spain, where he made his name.
After playing for Racing Santander and Real Sociedad for much of the 1990s, Mutiu - he's usually known by his first name in Spain - is now plying his trade with fourth division club Cobena.
Making his debut in their 0-0 draw against Real Madrid's third team, it was a far cry from when he used to command the midfield and terrorise the defence of the Spanish giant's senior side during his Primera division days. But Mutiu showed he still had a few of his old skills.
"The Nigerian played all 90 minutes and never flagged, demonstrating his great ability with the ball and proved he's still got all of his technical talent.
"He also had two outstanding shots, which could have broken the deadlock, but for some brilliance by the young Real keeper," wrote Spanish sports daily Marca.
So, why is Mutiu playing for the amateur side on the outskirts of the Spanish capital?
"Well, it's not for the money," joked the midfielder, who will be 34 next month.
"I have some friends involved with the club and I have not been playing regular football for the last few months, so it is a good way of getting back into the rhythm of the game."
Mutiu was lured to Cobena by their coach Agustin Rodriguez, a former Real Madrid and Tenerife goalkeeper who faced the Nigerian during his playing days.
Beginning his Spanish club career with Real Madrid's reserve side in 1990, Mutiu hopes to secure a professional contract with another European club during the forthcoming transfer window.
"I still have a few years left at the top level although I accepted that my days as an international were over some time ago."
One regret of Mutiu's impressive career is that he never won a club title, although he lifted the 1994 African Cup of Nations title with Nigeria.
Even a Spanish fourth division winners' medal may elude Mutiu, as Cobena are closer to the relegation zone.
But the player nicknamed 'The Headmaster' is happy to be giving the team's youngsters a few free lessons in how the game should be played.
