Zaniolo Backs Maduka Okoye To Inspire Udinese Revival
By Saheed Afolabi
Nicolò Zaniolo has praised Nigeria international goalkeeper Maduka Okoye for his impressive performance in Udinese’s draw against Parma, crediting the shot-stopper with helping the team end their losing streak.
Okoye produced a series of important saves to help Udinese secure a point away from home, and ended the Zebras six game losing streak at the Stadio Ennio Tardini on Wednesday night.
Zaniolo expressing his admiration for the Super Eagles goalkeeper’s quality and character in earning a vital point.
“It’s not the first time Maduka has saved us. I love him; he’s a good person and a fantastic goalkeeper,” Zaniolo said.
The Italian forward added that Okoye’s interventions were crucial to Udinese’s efforts to halt their run of defeats and improve their position in the league standings.
“Today, thanks to him, we broke our losing streak and got a point away from home that moves us up the table. Now we have to focus on Roma.”
Udinese have endured a difficult start to the season, with Zaniolo attributing their struggles partly to injuries and costly mistakes.
The forward, however, remains optimistic about the club’s prospects, insisting that the team can turn their campaign around once the squad returns to full strength.
“We’ve gotten off to a poor start to the season, partly due to injuries and partly due to a few too many mistakes, but we have a long road ahead, and with a full squad, we can have a great season.”
Zaniolo, who is working towards regaining his best form after returning to action, also spoke about his relationship with coach Roberto Mancini, acknowledging the role the Italian tactician played in launching his career.
“I’m always in touch with coach Mancini; he launched me, and I owe everything to him. I’m happy to be back on the pitch, now I have to find my best form.”
