On Wednesday, December 14, United beat Villarreal B 1-0 in a friendly game at Mini-Estadi with a Nigerian midfielder, Ipalibo Jack turning out for the Spanish outfit.

Jack is a native of Akuku-Toru LGA in Rivers State and he joined the Yellow Submarines earlier this year.

Leader of the United delegation to Spain and Sports Commissioner in Rivers State, Honourable Boma Iyaye explained that a partnership programme involving the two clubs will be explored.

“I was surprised to see a Nigerian playing for Villarreal when we faced them on Wednesday.

“However, we have a lot of very talented footballers back in Rivers State.

“We will look to see if a partnership with Villarreal will be possible to enable us bring some of our people over here,” he told the club’s official website, www.riversunitedfc.com.ng.

Rivers United will face CD Roda on Monday, December 19 as part of their pre-season preparations in Spain.

Igho Kingsley