Grapevine

Dida, my childhood idol – Okoye

Okoye joined Udinese last season after a difficult spell at Watford, where he made just two appearances during the 22/23 season.

After starting his Udinese career with bench roles, the Nigerian has gained the trust of the manager and fans alike to cement his position as the undisputed No. 1 goalkeeper at the Italian Serie A club.

In this interview, the 25-year-old named Dida, the former AC Milan goalkeeper, as his role model growing up.

“Always Nelson Dida and never anyone else (who was my childhood idol). I’ve never met him, but I’ve had contact with him through other people; this makes me very happy,” Okoye said.

“I grew up watching Dida, standing in goal thinking I am Dida; he has given me lots of motivation; for me, he is the number 1 goalkeeper in the world.“Maybe I need to watch what I say (laughs), but I always supported Dida’s Milan.”The 16-capped Eagles shotstopper was reluctant to pick the best goalkeeper from the current crop.