Udinese performance shows Okoye is ripe for Super Eagles return – Alloy Agu

Ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper Alloy Agu has expressed confidence in the potential return of goalkeeper Maduka Okoye to the national team following his impressive performances for Serie A side Udinese.

Recall that Okoye asked to be left out of the Super Eagles squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)— a decision multiple sources claimed stemmed from the backlash that trailed his performance for Nigeria at AFCON 2021 in Egypt.

The 24-year-old was the scapegoat following Nigeria’s exit in the round of 16, after a 1-0 loss to Tunisia.

With Okoye’s resurgence at Udinese, Agu believes there’s a high likelihood of his return to the Super Eagles setup, although the ex-Watford shot-stopper hasn’t played for Nigeria since the loss to Tunisia.

“I am delighted that Maduka Okoye has found his form back with Udinese in the Serie A. It’s not really easy but he’s been able to motivate himself which is gradually paying dividends for him,” Agu told Complete Sports.

“His consistency for Udinese is something I am proud of and I know that it’s just a matter of time before he will be recalled to the Super Eagles.

“He should remain positive and enjoy his game with Udinese.”

Okoye played every minute of Udinese’s last 12 league games, saving a whopping 38 out of 54 shots faced. He was named the club’s February Player of the Month.