“He’s one of the best”- Udinese boss surprised at Tottenham’s Nigeria-eligible defender’s National team snub

The youngster has been consistent since the Serie A season began, but he failed to make the cut for the Azzurri

Udinese coach Andrea Sottil has expressed his surprise at Tottenham loanee Destiny Udogie National team snub despite his consistent brilliance.

Udogie caught the eye of some top European sides after a brilliant campaign with Udinese last season. Inter Milan, AC Milan, Juventus, and Tottenham were all linked with the Hella Verona product.

However, Tottenham succeeded in acquiring his services in a deal worth €18million, albeit he would spend this season on loan at Udinese.

This season, the Nigeria-eligible left-back has been one of the best in Serie A, recording two goals in six appearances, helping his side to the summit of the league.

Italy boss Roberto Mancini called up 29 players ahead of their upcoming Nations League clashes against England and Hungary. However, the former Manchester City coach snubbed Udogie, opting for Federico Dimarco(Inter Milan) and Emerson Palmieri(West Ham).

Sottil is surprised that his star player failed to make the squad as he has been very good in the league this season.

 

“I respect Mancini’s choices but I was still surprised. Sottil said as per Spurs web.

“I think Udogie is one of the best full-backs in the League, he proves this all the time.”

 

At just 19, Udogie shows a lot of bravery. The Verona-born left-back is very apt defensively and could be a big threat when his side is on the offense. And he forms a crucial part of Sottil’s setup alongside Beto and Deulofeu.

Udogie has featured for the Italian youth teams, but he is yet to be capped for the Azzurri. He is still eligible to play for Nigeria because he has Nigerian parents.