Former Leone Stars captain Steven Caulker has opened up about the difficulties he faced during his time leading the national football team, describing the system as “very broken” and acknowledging the setbacks in his tenure.
After three years of service, Caulker stepped down as captain, expressing his disappointment at not being able to meet his goal of qualifying Sierra Leone for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a candid statement, Caulker shared the personal frustration of failing to secure AFCON qualification, a target he had worked tirelessly towards.
“Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to achieve my goal of qualifying us for AFCON, and it is with great sadness that I must accept this,” he said.
Despite the team’s moments of progress, the former Premier League defender expressed his concern over the broader state of Sierra Leonean football, noting systemic issues that have hindered growth.
“At times, we saw progress, but during this last campaign, it became evident that we have, in fact, taken five steps backward,” Caulker reflected.
In an act of generosity, Caulker donated his appearance fees from the 2024 AFCON campaign to The Sick Pikin Baby Project, a charity that supports children in need across Sierra Leone.
He stated, “I do not want to take money that we don’t deserve,” stressing that his contribution would benefit children who rely on the organization’s services.
The former captain also called for transformative leadership within Sierra Leonean football.
“Sierra Leone has an enormous amount of talent, and it is vitally important that we get the right people in charge, people who know how to bring out the best in the players on the pitch,” he urged.
Caulker concluded his statement by expressing deep gratitude to Coach John Keister, Sierra Leone Football Association President Thomas Daddy Brima, his teammates, and the fans.
“Representing Sierra Leone and my grandfather’s homeland was a profound honor. You welcomed me from day one, and for that, I will be forever grateful. Greater days are coming, keep the faith,” he said, leaving behind a hopeful message for the future of Sierra Leonean football.
Steven Caulker, a former England international, switched allegiance to Sierra Leone in 2021 through his paternal heritage. He made an immediate impact, captaining the team during the 2021 AFCON tournament in Cameroon—the country’s first appearance in the competition in over 25 years.
Under his leadership, Sierra Leone earned commendable results, including a memorable draw against defending champions Algeria.
Caulker’s involvement revitalized the team, but his tenure has not been without challenges, including issues related to player commitment and management disputes within Sierra Leone football.
