MONROVIA, Montserrado – With just a few more days to Liberia’s crucial African Cup of Nations qualifier against Togo, former Lone Star goalkeeper Nathaniel S. Sherman has cautioned players of the national team to approach the match as if it is their last chance for qualification.

Sherman, who was forced to retire early from football after he sustained an eye injury, told The Bush Chicken in an exclusive interview that the June 5 match between the Lone Star and Togo is a crucial one, especially given how long it has been since Liberia last reached the Nations Cup.

“The players should take into consideration that the June 5 match with Togo is all they have to qualify Liberia for the tournament in Gabon,” he said.

Sherman said, with most players aging beyond their football years, “This could be their last chance of playing in the Africa Cup of Nations.”

Liberia has twice qualified for the African Cup of Nations – in 1996 and 2002.

The Lone Star currently sits at the first spot on the table with 9 points in Group A with Tunisia and Togo occupying the second and third spot with 7 points each while Djibouti sits at fourth place with no points.

Each team has played four matches each and Liberia needs a victory against Togo to qualify for the tournament slated to be hosted in Gabon in 2017.

Sherman praised Coach James Debbah’s lineup, adding that “recalling Sekou Jabateh and Francis Grandpa Doe back into the team is a plus for the country.”

Reflecting on his time playing for the Lone Star, Sherman also said he really anticipated playing with the team and helping Liberia reach the tournament.

“I miss every moment with the national team,” he revealed. “I was there for the Lone Star during the difficult times and stood on the shores for the team to keep the team flying high.”

Even though he is no longer a part of the team, Sherman said he wishes to see then succeed and will be proud if they reach the tournament.

The former goalkeeper sustained serious injuries ahead of a game against Tunisia’s Carthage Eagles on September 4 of last year when he mistakenly walked into a hotel lobby glass door. He sustained a serious cut under his right eye and subsequently underwent surgery in India.

Featured photo by Zeze Ballah