‘Like Manchester United’ – Nigerian legend hails Brentford star after display vs Macclesfield

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Former Brentford FC defender Samuel Sodje has praised, Kaye Furo, following the club’s hard-fought 1-0 FA Cup victory over Macclesfield, Afrik Foot reports.

Sodje emphasised the importance of giving young Nigerian talents time to establish themselves in competitive European football.

The young forward, who impressed during the match decided by an own goal from Macclesfield defender Sam Heathcote, showed an impressive performance.

Sam Sodje
Sam Sodje. Copyright: imago/Colorsport npower

The former Super Eagles defender believes that playing consistently for the Bees is crucial for his development and could pave the way for future moves to bigger clubs.

‘Big club like Manchester United’ – Sodje backs Kaye

“It’s good for him. He needs time in the first team,” Sodje told Footy-Africa. “I’m sure he’s going to get more opportunities to show everyone what he can do. He is at an amazing club and he’s a nice player.”

Sodje revealed the family-oriented nature of the Gtech outfit and its focus on player development.

“Joining Brentford gives him a better chance of playing consistently. It’s different from joining a big club like Manchester United, where opportunities can sometimes be limited. I believe Brentford is the right move for him. I’m confident he will do well and earn his place in the first team.”

Paul Dawson pushes Kaye Furo during the Macclesfield vs Brentford
Kaye Furo. Copyright: Imago/MaxxTomlinson

Brentford’s growing link with Nigeria

The former Nigeria international also praised Brentford for their interest in Nigerian players.

“I’m proud that Brentford is looking toward Nigeria. They have always appreciated African players. We’re working to help open up the Nigerian market for them, bringing in more talented players and growing the fan base as well,” Sodje added.

Sam Sodje.
Sam Sodje. Copyright: imago/Panoramic

The forward now has a platform at Brentford to develop his skills and potentially follow in the footsteps of previous Nigerian stars who have successfully transitioned from mid-tier European clubs to top-flight football.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Editor Site Coordinator

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.