Heartland players plan fresh strike

Players of Federation Cup holders, Heartland are bracing up for another round of industrial action, SuperSport.com has been informed.

Midfielder Ikechukwu Ibenegbu said the players have resolved to resume the strike after their Nigeria Premier League (NPL) match against Enugu Rangers this Wednesday.

"The club told us that we will be paid in a week and by our count that one week grace will elapse after our game against (Enugu) Rangers on Wednesday. They said if they don't pay then the players can do whatever they please.

"And the only option before the players is to stay away from training and matches until we are paid," Ibenegbu also known as Mosquito said.

Last week, senior players of the club suspended a strike after meeting with officials of Heartland.

The Heartland players say they were promised the sum of N1 million each for winning the Federation Cup formerly known as the FA Cup by the Imo State government.

But the Imo State government is yet to redeem that pledge to the displeasure of the players.

The players of the Naze Millionaires also claim that they are yet to get the complete amount of their contract fees for this season.

The Naze Millionaires will also play other league games against Enyimba and Plateau United to round off their campaign this term.

Heartland are 12th in the NPL standings with 46 points but will play in the 2012 Caf Confederation Cup.