BY SAB OSUJI

Chijioke Mbaoma, Enyimba of Aba's prolific scorer and NPFL 2023/2024 season highest goal scorer, has refused to speak on his Enyimba future as the People's Elephant begin preparation for the 2024/2024 domestic and continental campaigns, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

Mbaoma's 17 goals return in the concluded season significantly proved rewarding as the nine-time champions finished in third place in the final day NPFL standings to earn the bragging right for their fifth CAF Confederation Cup campaign.

After a hard-fought 2-0 Defeat Of Plateau United in a Match Day 38 fixture in Aba on Sunday, in which his 77th opener set Enyimba on the glorious path, Mbaoma said he was delighted to be crowned the season's top scorer.

"As a player, I'm happy. Moreso given the fact my goals helped the club earn a continental slot", offers the forward when quizzed on his feeling emerging as the 2023/2024 NPFL Hot Shot Award Winner.

"It would have been more rewarding if we had won the NPFL title. But we went through a lot in the season but we still thank God for His mercies that at least, we had something to show for our efforts. 

"We give thanks to God. I commend my teammates for the hard work and support and also the coaches and our loyal supporters who are always there for us with their support".

With the conclusion of the 2023/2024 campaign, attention would now shift to preparation ahead the 2024/2025 domestic and continental campaigns.

But Mbaoma says he wouldn't answer questions regarding his availability or otherwise for the People's Elephant ahead the coming seasons, thus, fueling concern about his likely departure from the three time CAF Champions League winners fold.

" I can't answer that question now", Mbaoma responded repeatedly during a post match interview.