Tribal Football

Okoye stays Udinese’s No.1 goalkeeper, confirms Runjaic

Okoye stays Udinese’s No.1 goalkeeper, confirms Runjaic
Okoye stays Udinese’s No.1 goalkeeper, confirms RunjaicAlessio Tarpini / Zuma Press / Profimedia

Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic has reaffirmed Maduka Okoye as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.

The Nigeria international made his comeback on Monday evening following a two-month suspension over his alleged involvement in a high-profile betting scandal related to a 2023/24 match against Lazio.

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"Okoye has always been our number one, even when he wasn’t available. I’m happy he’s back. I can’t tell you if he’ll play in Cremona, but he’s ready,” Runjaic told the club’s official website.

"He’s trained well and has also used this period to reflect on himself, emerging stronger. We’re happy to have him back and have faith in him.

"Sava has put in some solid performances; he already replaced Okoye last year, and it’s a great challenge for him. He also has my full confidence and will improve. In recent months, he’s had the opportunity to grow as a person and as a goalkeeper."