Former AC Milan goalkeeper Dida has told Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye to keep working hard so he can reach the highest level, Soccernet.ng reports.
After struggling at Watford, Okoye looks as good as he was when he was at Sparta Rotterdam. He has slowly grown to become an important player for Udinese since last season when he replaced Marco Silvestri in the first team.
Last season, Okoye kept five clean sheets in 21 league games. And this season, he has maintained one clean sheet in six games.
In a recent interview, Okoye spoke glowingly of former AC Milan goalkeeper Dida, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest-ever to man the sticks. He also begged the former Brazil international to help him improve.
“Ciao Nelson, I think you already know that I am a big fan of yours, I hope that one day we can meet. I hope that you have heard of me, that you have seen my saves and that you can help me grow and reach your level. This is my wish. Greetings,” Okoye said.
Dida, who retired from active football in 2015 has now replied Okoye, urging the 25-year-old to keep working hard to as to reach his level.
“He is a goalkeeper who can do a lot in this championship, one thing I told him is that this is a tough championship, it is not easy, there are many things off the pitch that you have to manage,” Dida said.
“He must have the ability to keep his mind only for his job and for what he is capable of doing, so a lot of training, work and work, my advice is always that.
“Work certainly pays off, he is a goalkeeper that I like a lot, who can do a lot in this championship here.”
Okoye has shown great potential in the past. Recall that he was even linked with a move to Inter Milan in the summer. If he continues to produce impressive performances he could get a big move in the coming years.
