By Our Correspondent
National News – Maduka Okoye is poised to reclaim his starting spot for Udinese ahead of their Serie A clash against Como on Monday, following a thigh injury that forced him out of Nigeria’s second international friendly against Jordan last week.
The Nigerian goalkeeper had featured in Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Iran before withdrawing from the Jordan match due to the knock sustained in training.
Udinese head coach Kosta Runjaic confirmed Okoye’s availability as the team prepares for the upcoming fixture, reporting that the squad trained almost at full strength on Saturday, marking the first session after the international break with nearly everyone present.
Runjaic highlighted that apart from Jordan Zemura, Adam Buksa, and Alessandro Zanoli, all players are fit for selection.
Buksa is gradually recovering and is expected to resume training next week.
Runjaic also noted key squad challenges, mentioning that forward Keinan Davis will miss the match due to suspension, while midfielder Jesper Karlstrom is close to a suspension but has managed to avoid bookings recently.
Despite these absences, the coach emphasized that the team has alternatives in place and will adjust strategies as needed.
This season, Okoye has been instrumental for Udinese, making 22 appearances and keeping six clean sheets, solidifying his reputation as a reliable goalkeeper.
His return is expected to boost Udinese’s chances in improving their league position, especially against Como, who have posed tough challenges to opponents in recent matches.
The Serie A encounter will take place at Udinese’s home ground, with fans eagerly awaiting Okoye’s performance and the team’s response after the international break.
How Udinese adapts to the suspension of Davis and leverages Okoye’s return will be key to Monday’s result.
