Some of The Facts You Did Not Know About Former Super Eagles Defender Celestine Iroka aka Babayaro........

 

Celestine Iroka Babayaro was born on August 29th, 1978, to his father, Mr. Iroka, a former IT employee, was from Amaigbo in Nkwerre Local Government Area, while his mother, Mrs. Esther Iroka, was from Amanato in Ideator Local Government Area, both in Imo State.

Celestine was born and brought up in Southern Kaduna by his parents, he adopted the name Babayaro due to the influence his coach then by name Alhaji Sabo Babayaro of Jama'a Road Kaduna had on him.

Celestine played as a defender and midfielder, he began his playing career for Nigerian Premier Football League side Plateau United, before joining Belgian giants Anderlecht in 1994.

Celestine Babayaro became the first Nigerian to play for Chelsea when he joined the London club in April 1997, aged 18, for £2.25 million.

He played over 200 games for Chelsea, winning the UEFA Cup Winners' Cup, UEFA Super Cup, FA Cup and FA Charity Shield.

For the national team, Celestine Iroka won the U17 World Cup in 1993. He also won an Olympic gold medal in Atlanta in 1996 and made a total of 48 appearances for the Super Eagles scoring 4 goals.

Celestine is often regarded as one of the best fullbacks Nigeria has ever had alongside Taye Taiwo.