Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has received encouragement from AC Milan great, Dida, as he looks to establish himself as a key player for Udinese in Serie A.
The Nigerian shot-stopper, who had a difficult spell at Watford, has found his form again in Italy and is eager to elevate his career to new heights.
Okoye, 25, kept five clean sheets in 21 appearances for Udinese this season, and this season, he has recorded one clean sheet in six games as he continues his upward trajectory in Serie A.
In September, Okoye expressed his admiration for Dida, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time. “[My childhood idol] always Nelson Dida and never anyone else. I’ve never met him but I’ve had contact with him through other people, this makes me very happy,” Okoye said.
Dida imparts sage advice to Maduka Okoye amid Udinese rise
The former Sparta Rotterdam goalkeeper, in an interview with Radio Serie A, expressed his desire to meet up with the Brazilian legend at some point. “Ciao Nelson, I think you already know that I am a big fan of yours,” Okoye said.
“I hope that one day we can meet, and that you can help me grow and reach your level.”
In response, Dida, who retired in 2015, said to Radio Serie A, “He is a goalkeeper who can do a lot in this championship. This is a tough league, and there are many off-pitch distractions that must be managed.
“My advice is always to keep training and working hard. He has great potential and can do a lot in this league.”
Okoye was linked with a potential move to Inter Milan in the summer, and if his performances continue to improve, a big transfer could be in his future.
