Maduka Okoye Regains No.1 Spot As Udinese Coach Kosta Runjaic Confirms Faith In Nigerian Goalkeeper

Udinese Boss Kosta Runjaic Has Officially Reinstated Nigerian Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye As The Club’s First Choice Between The Sticks — Ending Speculation Over His Future Following A Two-Month Suspension.

Okoye, Who Was Sidelined After Being Linked To A Betting Scandal From The 2023/2024 Season, Has Returned To Full Training And Is Available For Selection As Udinese Face Cremonese In Serie A.

Runjaic Reaffirms His Trust

Despite The Emergence Of Romania International Răzvan Sava, Who Impressed In Okoye’s Absence, Runjaic Has Made It Clear That The Super Eagles Star Remains His Preferred Option.

“Okoye Has Always Been Our Number One, Even When He Wasn’t Available. I’m Happy He’s Back,” Runjaic Told The Club’s Official Website. “He’s Trained Well, Reflected On Himself, And Emerged Stronger. We’re Happy To Have Him Back And Have Faith In Him.”

Competition Still Healthy

While Confirming Okoye’s Status, The Udinese Boss Also Praised Sava’s Growth, Acknowledging The Positive Competition Between Both Goalkeepers.

“Sava Has Put In Some Solid Performances And Will Continue To Improve. He’s Had The Opportunity To Grow As A Person And As A Goalkeeper,” Runjaic Added.

Okoye’s Redemption Arc

For Maduka Okoye, This Marks A Crucial Turning Point. The Former Sparta Rotterdam And Watford Shot-Stopper Has Worked Hard To Regain His Place And Reputation. His Return Comes At A Pivotal Moment As Udinese Aim To Climb Up The Serie A Table.

Having Used His Suspension Period To Regain Focus And Mental Strength, Okoye’s Comeback Could Be The Fresh Start He Needs To Cement His Status As One Of Africa’s Top Goalkeepers In Europe.