Former Nigeria U-17 goalkeeper, Okiemute Odah, who plays for Saudi Arabian Division 1 side Jeddah FC has opened up on his experience while playing in the Nigerian league saying the home league is very physical when compared to the Saudi league which is highly professional, tactically strong and fast.
“Nigeria league is more physical and the home team must win most of the time but it is not so in Saudi Arabia. The Saudi league is highly professional, tactically strong and fast.
“I have played in nine league games in the Saudi League and kept four clean sheets for my club.
“My U-17 experience was great, because it opened my eyes to the tasks I will face in the future although we failed to qualify for the 2005 World Cup in Peru after the Africa U-17 Youth Championship in the Gambia. For now I will not say I have achieved my objectives or not. I am still focusing on my job,” he said while also answering question on his Golden Eaglet’s experience.
Speaking on how he feels missing invitations to the Super Eagles especially after the World Cup in Russia, and now qualifiers to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Okiemute
said:
“Well, nothing really. Every player wants to play for his country but I just feel maybe is not time yet for me to play for the Super Eagles.”
Okiemute further revealed that his target is to help his new team Jeddah FC gain promotion to the top league in Saudi Arabia after signing a season-long loan from Plateau United.
“I look forward to giving my best in my new club. I am prepared and ready to give my best to contribute my quota for the team to gain promotion to the elite league of the country.
“Our club is truly a professional side with modern training facilities and above all the welfare of the players is paramount and we will ensure we achieve our targets.
“I am here to prove my worth a good goalkeeper and to make a living to take care of my family.”
On his relationship with some Super Eagles players, he added: “Ahmed Musa is a nice guy. He understands the Saudi culture better and we speak to each other on the phone from time to time on that, as well as our careers here.
“On Francis Uzoho’s rise, is a big inspiration to me. I am happy for him. Hopefully I shall join him soon in the national team. It’s his
time!”
